Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety

The complainant requested information in relation to previously released abortion statistics for hospitals in Northern Ireland for the years 2003-2007. The DHSSPS refused to disclose some of this information, citing sections 38(1) (a) and (b) (endangerment to health and safety) and 40(2) and (3) (i)(a) (personal data of third parties) as a basis for non-disclosure. The Commissioner finds that these exemptions are not engaged and the DHSSPS is required to disclose the information in question. The Commissioner also finds that the DHSSPS has breached sections 1(1)(a), 1(1)(b), 10(1) and 17(1)(c) of the Act. Information Tribunal appeal EA/2010/0155 struck out.