28 November 2023
A M Smith
[FYI request #24326 email]
DOIA 2324-0762
Tēnā koe A M Smith
Thank you for your email of 3 October 2022 to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
(MBIE) requesting, under the Official Information Act 1982 (the Act), the following:
I am requesting access too all emails sent by Hyden Toonen to MBIE (e.g. Alison McDonald) in
2023 in relation to the Language Assistance Services Programme, particularly emails involving
Carolina Cannard and her fair rates campaign.
We understand your request relates to emails in relation to the Language Assistance Services
Programme itself, rather than delivery of language assistance services.
On 1 November 2023, the period of time available to make a decision on this request was extended
under section 15A of the Act, as the request necessitates a search through a large quantity of
information and further consultation was required to make a decision on your request.
Our Response Please refer to the attached appendix for information in scope of your request. Some information is out
of scope and some information has been withheld under the fol owing sections of the Act:
- 9(2)(a) to protect the privacy of persons
- 9(2)(b)(ii) to protect information that would likely unreasonably prejudice the commercial
position of the person who supplied or who is the subject of the information
- 9(2)(g)(i) maintain the effective conduct of public affairs through the free and frank expression
of opinions by or between or to Ministers of the Crown or members of an organisation or
officers and employees of any public service agency or organisation in the course of their duty.
I have considered whether withholding that information is outweighed by other considerations which
render it desirable, in the public interest, to make that information available, in accordance with section
9(1) of the OIA, however it is my opinion that such grounds do not exist.
You have the right to seek an investigation and review of this decision by the Ombudsman. Information
about making a complaint is available at
www.ombudsman.parliament.nz or freephone 0800 802 602.
If you wish to discuss any aspect of your request or this response, please contac
t [email address].
Ngā mihi nui
Fiona Whiteridge
General Manager Refugee and Migrant Services
Immigration New Zealand
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