OTTAWA, Oct. 1, 2012 /CNW/ - Canada's Information Commissioner, Suzanne Legault, today launched a dialogue with stakeholders and Canadians on updating Canada's 30-year-old Access to Information Act.
Over the past several years the Information Commissioner's annual reports, as well as those of her predecessors, have documented a number of ongoing challenges with the Act. These challenges include the continued relevance of certain exceptions and exemptions from the Act and the need for 21st century rules that take account of new technological advances.
"We need a comprehensive approach to assess current needs and future requirements", the Commissioner stressed. "Despite much thoughtful discussion and debate, more often than not, changes to our access laws have been done on a piecemeal basis."
Anyone can play a role in the ongoing dialogue by sharing their views on issues related to access to information. As a guide, the Office of the Information Commissioner has prepared two set of questions - one more general, and the other raising specific issues related to the Act.
"Information gleaned from the consultation process will enable me to provide informed advice to Parliament on potential changes that will keep the Act relevant and effective and ensure it continues to reflect the values of Canadians." the Commissioner concluded.
The dialogue will run until December 21, 2012. The Information Commissioner will report to Parliament in Fall 2013.
To join in the dialogue, please visit our consultation page.
SOURCE: Office of the Information Commissioner of Canada
For media enquiries, please contact:
Josée Villeneuve
Office of the Information Commissioner of Canada
Director, Public Affairs
613-947-2223
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