A law to allow the public access to official documents could soon be on its way to the Legislative Assembly.
Leader of Government Business Kurt Tibbetts told the House on Monday that the Cabinet has approved a ‘bill for a law to give the public a general right of access to official documents.’
Mr. Tibbetts said the bill is being circulated to ensure the widest possible consultation.
After a 90 day period, input received would be assessed and any agreed changes would be made before it is finally taken to the Legislative Assembly, he said.
‘This is part of the government’s freedom of information initiative,’ Mr. Tibbetts told the House.
Other legislative measures in line with the government’s aim of open, transparent, honest and efficient public administration would also be introduced, he said.
It was recognised however that the outcome would be achieved ‘by changes in attitude and behaviour rather than specific expenditures.’
A Public Service Management Bill would reform the government’s human resource management system to complement the Financial Management Initiative.
‘This will include, among other things a set of Public Service Values and a Public Servant’s Code of Conduct,’ said Mr. Tibbetts.
A Public Authorities Bill would ‘provide for an overarching system of governance, accountability and management for statutory authorities and government companies,’ he said.
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