Any information held by the Policing Board can be released if requested unless it is covered by an exemption. In some instances the Policing Board may need to consult other public authorities and/or third parties in order to reach a decision as to whether information can be released or is covered by an exemption.
Exemptions fall into two distinct categories: absolute and non-absolute. With an absolute exemption there is no right of access to the information requested. If a non-absolute exemption applies, consideration must be given to releasing the information if it is in the public interest to do so.