Access to Information and Privacy Law

This complex and challenging area requires attention to detail. Recent trends show the public is frequently requesting copies of documentation and information acquired by municipal governments. Knowing when and how much information to release is important to a municipality in order that it can be open, transparent and accountable to the public. This satisfies the public’s need for knowledge, yet complies with the legislative requirements to protect the confidential information a municipality acquires while operating the municipality.

Access to Information

Our advisory team has experience representing municipal governments and quasi-municipal boards and organizations in dealing with information requests received from the public, responding to investigations by ombudsman officials, and appearing before the courts. The purpose of access to information in government is to provide transparency in how government operates and to hold government accountable to the public and the voters. This access however, must be balanced with the concerns of confidentiality. Therefore, several types of information are exempt from being accessed by the public. Knowing when and what can be accessed is important to the proper operation of a municipality.

Privacy Law

Everyone has a right to the protection of their personal information and privacy. Organizations such as municipalities are more often being challenged on their use, collection, disclosure, and storage of personal information. As well, there are specific obligations to (or imposed on) entities that collect, use, and disclose the private information they collect.

Our Goal

Our advisory team has been providing advice and assistance to municipalities on access to information requests and privacy law for many years. We have also presented seminars on this subject matter to municipal officials.

We provide advice to our clients on the following matters: