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Local and some other Pacific Islands media groups has applauded the Cook Islands Parliament for passing the Official Information Bill, tabled in the House this week by Deputy Prime Minister Sir Terepai Maoate.
As news of the passing spread on-line the office of the DPM has received numerous conratutory messages.
And this morning the office held its first 'workshop' with heads of ministries and Government Agencies regarding the Bill.
Cook Islands News Editor John Woods in his presentation, reiterated the importance of freedom and exchange of information to allow "public knowledge of what is
happening."
Calling it a "ground-breaking" move by Parliament in passing the Bill, Woods said tha for the OI to be successful, there must be transparancy and accountability.
"Do not compress information." he added.
Woods has worked extensively with FOI in New Zealand.
Cook Islands Ombudsman Janet Maki explained about the values and merits of having an OI legislation and the responsibilities of Government.
Source: Govmedia
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