Certainly. But it also usually results in a verbal response from a PR flack. And when I've tried in the past, I usually get the runaround, because bloggers and ordinary citizens are at the bottom of the foodchain as far as inquiries are concerned. "Someone will call you back" - and then they never do.
At least with written requests you can count on a response. Added to that, I have a strong preference for primary sources if possible.
Certainly - it is very useful, however, when you know they're not going to give you what you want. You get the refusal within a few minutes and can go straight to the Ombudsman without waiting for a written response 20 working days later...
Thanks - but it might be helpful to know that a phonecall to MFAT to ask for information *is* an OIA request.
ReplyDeleteCertainly. But it also usually results in a verbal response from a PR flack. And when I've tried in the past, I usually get the runaround, because bloggers and ordinary citizens are at the bottom of the foodchain as far as inquiries are concerned. "Someone will call you back" - and then they never do.
ReplyDeleteAt least with written requests you can count on a response. Added to that, I have a strong preference for primary sources if possible.
Certainly - it is very useful, however, when you know they're not going to give you what you want. You get the refusal within a few minutes and can go straight to the Ombudsman without waiting for a written response 20 working days later...
ReplyDelete