Public authorities are to be guided on better record-keeping and being more proactive in the disclosure of information, the Senate has heard.

Mischa Fubler, a government senator, provided an update on the Public Access to Information and Protection of Personal Information Unit during the Budget debate on the Cabinet Office on Thursday.

The unit was allocated $862,000 in the Budget.

Mr Fubler, who is the Cabinet Office junior minister, said the authorities would be given support in meeting their statutory obligations with updated guidance materials.

The Public Access to Information Act was amended to introduce fees and other restrictions, with MPs approving a Bill in December.

Presenting the Public Access to Information Bill before the House of Assembly, Crystal Caesar, the Minister of the Cabinet Office at the time, claimed that government ministries had been swamped by Pati applications.

Mr Fubler said: “Effective records management forms the foundation of meaningful public access to information.

“The unit undertook significant work to develop the Pati records management code of practice, which will provide comprehensive guidance on how public authorities should create, maintain and preserve official records.

“This code is essential for ensuring public records remain accessible, authentic and reliable throughout their life cycle.

“The code looks to address challenges in digital record-keeping, including requirements for managing information across cloud platforms and collaborative systems.

“The code provides detailed guidance on managing paper and digital environments, ensuring consistent handling of records regardless of format.

“These improvements directly support public authorities in meeting their statutory obligations while promoting greater transparency and accountability in government operations.

“The effectiveness of Pati fundamentally depends on the Government’s ability to properly manage government records, and this code of practice provides the robust framework needed to support that goal.”

Ms Caesar said on presenting the amendment Bill that Pati had placed “an unreasonable burden on resources” and took up “considerable time and effort” of government officials.

David Burt told The Royal Gazettein December that hiring extra staff to ease the strain on public officers tasked with responding to Pati requests was off the table.

The Premier denied that the Bill reduced scrutiny, maintaining that the Government would make its information more accessible with the help of technological advancements.

The amendment means those who seek information must pay $60 per hour if their requests take more than 16 hours to process.

Under new legislation, Pati requests will also be dropped if they require more than 100 hours to complete.

Mr Fubler added: “The Government’s operations require interaction with the public and international partners involving information exchange through both traditional and digital channels. This reality underscores the importance of embedding information rights and privacy principals throughout our operations.

“As we continue to manage and refine the Pati framework, we envisage a future where access to information facilitates greater civic participation, supports evidence-based policy development and contributes to Bermuda’s standing as a modern, well-governed jurisdiction.

“The journey towards fully realised information access requires sustained effort from all stakeholders, public authorities working towards proactive disclosure and improved disclosure practices, residents engaging thoughtfully with the information and the Pati/Pipa unit providing guidance to navigate complex information ecosystems.

“Challenges remain in balancing transparency with other important considerations, such as privacy and security. The pursuit of these principles offers potential benefits for government effectiveness, civic engagement and jurisdictional reputation that extend well beyond mere regulatory compliance.”

Pati has helped The Royal Gazette to uncover numerous stories about the Government including the special report on gaming and casino gaming details.

The Act also helped to reveal the cost of sending at-risk children in care abroad and them having no legal representation before going overseas.