An information officer for the Ministry of Home Affairs has been awarded for his work in ensuring that the public have access to government records.

David Northcott “demonstrated a commitment to improving the co-ordination and co-operation between public access to information requesters, public authorities and the information commissioner’s office”, according to the citation.

Mr Northcott’s award was given on Wednesday, September 28 — International Right To Know Day.

Mr Northcott was also praised for “encouraging his co-workers to understand and adhere to effective Pati procedures”, according to Rozy Azhar, the Permanent Secretary for the ministry.

Ms Azhar added: “I am very pleased and excited that David has won this award. David is an invaluable asset to the Ministry of Home Affairs.

“Before he came, Pati requests were handled in a haphazard way, causing internal reviews and, at times, have had to be escalated to the information commissioner.

“David has provided training, advice and assistance to all the departments in the Ministry of Home Affairs. This award recognises his excellent work and I am thankful to the Information Commissioner for selecting him.”

The award was backed by Information Commissioner Gitanjali Gutierrez, who highlighted the importance of the work of information officers.

Ms Gutierrez said: “Bermuda’s information officers are often the first people that Pati requesters interact with when submitting their Pati requests.

“Information officers that embrace this important role and make empowered decisions on behalf of their public authority are invaluable assets in enforcing Pati rights.

“An information officer that is knowledgeable of the Pati Act and supported in this role can have a positive impact on not only their public authority but the relationships that their public authority has with the public that they serve.

“This year’s award recipient, David Northcott, upholds the best qualities of an effective information officer. My team and I celebrate Mr Northcott and commend him for his commitment to the principles of the Pati Act.”