PM Defends Freedom of Information Process Amid Calls for Greater Transparency
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended the process for accessing government spending data under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), dismissing opposition concerns about a lack of transparency in reporting travel and related expenses.
During a parliamentary session, opposition MPs pressed the Prime Minister for details on government spending for overseas travel in January 2025 and how it compared to the previous year.
Browne responded by stating that such detailed financial data requires formal written requests under FOIA or through parliamentary questions submitted in advance.
“You can’t expect any Prime Minister to have a running total of every travel expense at a moment’s notice,” Browne said.
“There are proper procedures in place for accessing this information, and those processes should be utilized.”
The opposition has criticized the government’s handling of financial disclosures, arguing that the Freedom of Information process is slow and bureaucratic.
While FOIA theoretically allows citizens and lawmakers to request government data, critics claim that responses are often delayed or incomplete, limiting accountability.
“The Prime Minister speaks about transparency, but why does it take so long to get basic financial reports?” Opposition MP Richard Lewis asked. “The public has a right to know how taxpayer money is being spent without unnecessary delays.”
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Good to hear the PM defending the process, but is it really working as intended?
The opposition has a point. If there’s nothing to hide, why not make access easier?
If the PM says the process works, why do so many struggle to get information?
Both government and opposition should work together for a stronger FOI system.
What’s the government doing to make FOI requests faster and more effective?
If the PM is confident in the process, then let’s see public reports on FOI requests and outcomes.
That will not change any time soon, all you must be drunk, we need time to hide de sudden from inquisitive minds
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