The Government Information (Public Access) Act (Woo) gives residents of Zoetermeer the right to request information from the government. Transparency regarding government actions is central to this.
What does the Woo entail?
The Government Information (Public Access) Act, formerly known as the Wob, regulates access to government information. The principle is that information is public, unless a statutory exception applies.
Who may submit a Woo request?
In Zoetermeer and elsewhere, anyone may submit a Woo request:
- Residents
- Businesses
- Media
- Civil society organisations
It is not necessary to have a specific interest in the information.
What data can you request?
In Zoetermeer, you can request information on topics such as:
- Policy decisions
- Reports and studies
- Email correspondence and letters
- Minutes of meetings
- Agreements with external parties
Where do you submit a request?
For the Municipality of Zoetermeer, address your request to the Municipal Executive. For other government bodies, the following contact points apply:
| Government body | Submit to |
|---|---|
| Municipality of Zoetermeer | Municipal Executive |
| Province of South Holland | Deputed States |
| Ministry | Relevant minister |
| Water board | Daily Board |
How does the procedure work?
- Send a written request to the relevant body in Zoetermeer
- Provide a clear description of the desired documents
- The government must respond within 4 weeks (extension to 6 weeks possible)
- For extensive requests, the period may be longer
Frequently asked questions about the Woo in Zoetermeer
Are there costs associated with a Woo request?
Submitting a request is free of charge. For copies or extracts, the Municipality of Zoetermeer may charge costs.
Do I need to explain why I need the information?
No, you do not need to provide a reason. Access to information is a right, regardless of your reason.
What do I do in case of refusal of my request?
In case of refusal, you can lodge an objection with the body within 6 weeks, such as the Municipal Executive in Zoetermeer.
Practical questions and answers
How do I submit a Woo request to the Municipality of Zoetermeer?
Send a written request to the Municipal Executive. Specifically describe the information you are seeking, for example by mentioning dates or topics. This can be done by post or email. The processing period is normally 4 weeks.
Which information is excluded from the Woo?
Exceptions include personal data, business confidential information, national security and ongoing matters. The Municipality of Zoetermeer must explain why something is not made public.
How quickly will I receive a response to my request?
The standard period is 4 weeks, with a possible extension of 2 weeks for complex cases. No response? Contact the Municipality of Zoetermeer or file a complaint.
What if my request is refused?
You have 6 weeks to object. Send an objection letter to the body in Zoetermeer. If that does not help, you can go to the District Court of The Hague or the National Ombudsman.
Can I request contracts between the municipality and companies?
Yes, but parts may be refused due to commercial interests. Specifically request public parts and object if necessary.
Do I need to provide personal data?
Yes, name and contact details are required for processing. Anonymous requests are not processed, but your privacy is protected.
Can I submit a request digitally?
Yes, the Municipality of Zoetermeer often accepts email requests. Check the municipal website for instructions and request an acknowledgment of receipt.
Summary
The Woo gives everyone in Zoetermeer the right to request government information without reason. Submit your request in writing to the appropriate body, such as the Municipal Executive. For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. In case of disputes, you can go to the District Court of The Hague.