Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
New Ombudsman opinion
New Ombudsman opinion
The Ombudsman has released his
opinion on a complaint about the NZ Fire Service’s
decision to refuse a request for the NZ Localities dataset,
unless the requester signed a licence agreement governing
use of the dataset.
Professor Paterson found that withholding an unlicensed copy of the dataset was necessary to avoid prejudice to the measures the Fire Service has in place to protect public health and safety, and to protect or mitigate against material loss to members of the public: “A conservative approach is prudent when considering the necessity of avoiding prejudice to measures that are designed to protect against potentially devastating consequences.”
The public interest is met because the dataset is available free, provided the licence agreement is signed, and the licence requirements are not onerous.
You can read the full opinion here.
ends
Business Canterbury: Urges Council To Cut Costs, Not Ambition For City
Wellington Airport: On Track For Net Zero Emissions By 2028
Landcare Research: ANZAC Gall Fly Release Promises Natural Solution To Weed Threat
NZ Anti-Vivisection Society: Auckland Rat Lovers Unite!
University of Canterbury: $1.35 Million Grant To Study Lion-like Jumping Spiders
Federated Farmers: Government Ends War On Farming
