From CompliNEWS | Financial Service Intelligence Watch Thursday
PAIA annual reports: Deadline extended to 12 July 2024
Compli-Serve
Take note of the upcoming deadline for submitting your PAIA Annual Reports. Public and private organisations in South Africa are required to submit these reports annually. This year, the closing date has been extended to 12 July 2024.
The Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) mandates that all entities, both public and private, adhere to its provisions to ensure transparency and accountability. The annual report is a critical component of compliance, reflecting an organisation’s efforts to promote access to information and detailing the requests received and processed over the past year.
Key elements to include in your PAIA Annual Report:
- Number of requests received – Detailed information on how many information requests were received.
- Responses to requests – Documentation of how these requests were addressed, including any refusals and the reasons for such decisions.
- Information officer details – Updated contact information for the organisation’s designated information officer.
- Challenges faced – Any difficulties encountered in processing information requests and steps taken to overcome them.
To ensure your report is comprehensive and accurate, it is advisable to start the preparation process early. Engage with relevant departments within your organisation to gather necessary data and insights. This proactive approach will not only streamline the submission process but also reinforce your commitment to transparency. Remember, non-compliance with PAIA can lead to significant penalties and undermine public trust in your organisation. If you have any questions or require assistance with your report, please consult the official guidelines or seek professional advice.