Critics slam NDP's proposed Freedom of Information Act changes
The NDP government is under fire for proposed changes to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, which some worry will lead to more secrecy and less transparency.
Lisa Beare, the Minister for Citizen Services, introduced amendments this week that she says are overdue.
Among the changes are new penalties for those who flout freedom of information rules by deliberating deleting requested data, and for those caught "snooping" through files they don't need to access. Another provision provides for mandatory reporting when data is hacked.
But what many people have taken offence to is a $25 fee for anyone who puts in a freedom of information request to find out how government is making decisions – decisions it makes on the public's behalf and with taxpayer dollars.
Privacy Commissioner Michael McEvoy takes issue with the government's stance that several other Canadian provinces have fees too.
"It acts as a barrier, and that's just not right. In an age where, again, it's the public's information to begin with, it should not cost the public additional money to get that information," he told CTV News.
Samara Starkman is a data privacy expert and lawyer who is a managing partner with INQ consulting. She points out even the $5 fee introduced in Ontario has been a deterrent, despite the existence of a waiver to cancel fees.
She suggested that or a cap on fees in B.C. may be needed: "We believe the commissioner still has reason to be concerned about access."
The minister says the number of requests are going up, and it takes time to process them all. In a scrum with reporters, Beare added some media outlets put in more requests than all others combined. She said the decision was made after consultation.
Asked who suggested the fee would work, she responded, "health authorities, universities, other public sector bodies."
They all respond to information requests. Beare also insisted journalist and others had an "opportunity to comment."
Opposition parties and journalists rely on the requests when government doesn't answer questions. When it wasn't in power, the NDP regularly used the service.
McEvoy pointed out $25 may not seem like a lot, but can be an impediment.
"If you're going to various health authorities, if you're going to the Ministry of Health, if you're going to a whole range of public bodies, that $25 begins to add up fairly quickly," McEvoy said.
Starkman agreed the decision could fly in the face of what FOI rules are meant to do: provide transparency.
"You don't want to limit the ability to access public information, and to essentially close off the ability to hold government accountable."
The commissioner also said it's "exceedingly troubling" that public agencies will be able to store your personal data outside Canada, without explaining exactly how that information will be kept safe.
Starkman noted many private businesses already do this, and in this regard B.C. was behind many other jurisdictions. Still, she said the change would need to be accompanied by strict rules and safeguards.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
WATCH LIVE Toronto police to release updated list of most wanted fugitives in Canada
Toronto police and law enforcement partners will be releasing the BOLO program’s updated list of the top 25 most wanted fugitives in Canada at a news conference on Tuesday morning.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Fire engulfs old Edmonton municipal airport hangar
A historical hangar at the former Edmonton municipal airport beside the NAIT main campus was on fire Monday night.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised
'How much plastic will you have for dinner, sir? And you, ma'am?' While that may seem like a line from a satirical skit on Saturday Night Live, research is showing it's much too close to reality.