Public Record Office of Northern Ireland
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FOI exemptions

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PRONI file where sensitive information has been blanked out under Freedom of Information.
Some records in the custody of the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) will be closed due to the nature of the information they contain.  If this is the case, the information will be covered by one of a number of exemptions, as specified under the terms of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 Opens a new browser window..

FOI exemptions which most commonly apply to historical public records

Section 38: Health and Safety

Where the disclosure of information could endanger the safety or physical/mental health of a person(s).

Some examples include:
  • Photographs contained in a Coroner’s Inquest file relating to the deceased and whose disclosure could endanger the mental health of surviving relatives.
  • Information on an official file containing allegations about someone which if disclosed could place their safety at risk.

Section 40: Personal information

Where the information contained in the record is personal data and the disclosure of this information could contravene the principles of the Data Protection Act 1998 Opens a new browser window..

Some examples include:
  • Information relating to the personal medical details of a living person recorded in a hospital register.
  • Information relating to children in care recorded in a Board of Guardians (workhouse) register.

If an exemption applies, does this mean I can't see the information I have requested?

Even when exemptions apply, PRONI will endeavour to release as much information as possible. For example:
  • In some instances, PRONI can make a copy of a document, blank out/cover up those parts that require ongoing protection because of sensitivity and create a new copy. You will then be able to access this copy and thus some of the information you requested.

  • In other instances, if there is too much sensitive information for PRONI to feasibly blank out, staff may be able to carry out a search of specific records (for example, closed workhouse registers) on your behalf.  If the search is successful, PRONI will consult with the Responsible Authority and will release extracts or a summary of the information you requested.

Further Information