Justice Donna Newton sworn in as Information Commissioner

Retired Supreme Court Justice Donna Newton has been sworn in as the Bahamas’ new Information Commissioner as the government moves to strengthen the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act.

Newton received her instrument of appointment during a ceremony at Government House yesterday morning, with members of the Judiciary in attendance.

Her appointment took effect on September 18.

Newton brings decades of legal and judicial experience to the newly appointed role. She was called to the Bahamas Bar in 1988 and joined the Judiciary in 1995 as an Assistant Registrar.

She later served as Registrar of the Supreme Court and Deputy Registrar of the Court of Appeal before being appointed a Justice of the Supreme Court in 2017.

As Information Commissioner, Newton will have responsibility for the administration and oversight of the Freedom of Information framework, which is intended to give members of the public greater access to information held by public authorities.

Her appointment comes as the government continues efforts to fully implement the legislation and establish the mechanisms necessary for the public to exercise their right to access government-held information.