With the Government Information (Access) Act (Woo), you have the right to request data from the government in Westland. Transparency regarding the government's actions is central.
What does the Woo entail?
The Government Information (Access) Act (formerly Wob) safeguards your right to access government information. The principle is that everything is public, except in exceptional cases.
Who may submit a Woo request?
A Woo request can be made by anyone:
- Residents of Westland
- Businesses
- Media and journalists
- Civil society organisations
You do not need to have a specific reason or interest to request information.
What information can you request?
You can, among other things, request:
- Policy documents and decisions
- Research reports
- E-mails and letters
- Minutes of meetings
- Agreements with external parties
Where can you submit a request in Westland?
| Authority | Contact Point |
|---|---|
| Municipality of Westland | College of Mayor and Aldermen |
| Province of South Holland | Deputed States |
| Relevant ministries | The responsible minister |
| Water board | The daily board |
How does the procedure work?
- Send a written request to the relevant authority
- Provide a clear description of the desired documents
- The government must respond within 4 weeks (possibly extended by 2 weeks)
- For extensive requests, a longer period may apply
Frequently asked questions about the Woo in Westland
Are there costs associated with a Woo request?
Submitting it is free of charge. Costs may be charged for copies or extracts.
Do I have to explain why I want the information?
No, you are not required to provide a reason. Access to information is a right, regardless of your motive.
What do I do if my request is rejected?
If your request is rejected, you can lodge an objection with the relevant authority within 6 weeks.
Additional information and support in Westland
For help with submitting a Woo request, you can contact the Westland Legal Advice Centre. For disputes, you can go to the District Court of The Hague, under which Westland falls.
Practical tips for a Woo request
- Be as specific as possible in your request (e.g., dates, subjects or file numbers)
- Check if the information is already publicly available on the Municipality of Westland website
- Take into account the response period and request an acknowledgment of receipt