The total number of requests received since the introduction of the code in March 1995 amounted to 28,189. Of the 25,551 requests for which the bureaux and departments held the information and had responded to, 24,963 requests (98%) were met, either in full (24,390 requests) or in part (573 requests).

Bureaux and departments were still processing 44 requests. Only 588 requests (2%) were refused, while 1,492 requests were subsequently withdrawn. The bureaux and departments concerned did not hold the requested information in respect of 1,102 requests.

In the fourth quarter, the Ombudsman received 10 complaints relating to the code and has completed investigations of nine complaint cases.

Of the nine completed cases, one was partially substantiated while eight were settled by offering assistance and clarification to the complainants. One complaint was withdrawn by the complainant and the Ombudsman decided not to pursue another having considered the circumstances of the case.

Up to the end of December, the Ombudsman was still investigating 14 complaints.