A recent report on Access to Information requests has revealed shortcomings in responses provided by the Premier’s Office.
The province’s Privacy Commissioner says the complaints stemmed from ATIPPA requests looking for information on travel and expenses for a Senior Advisor in the Premier’s Office, as well as Premier Andrew Furey.
Commissioner Michael Harvey concluded that the provided responses were not satisfactory under the Act.
(Privacy Commissioner Michael Harvey)
The complainant then filed a complaint that suggested there was political motive for the inadequate response. Harvey says there is no evidence to support that claim, however, he says the Premier’s Office did not provide a “convincing explanation” for not complying to ATIPPA obligations.
Harvey also says similar requests in the past were accommodated, which makes it difficult to understand why these requests were not handled in the same way.
The Commissioner has recommended that the Premier’s Office develop policies to adequately respond to requests regarding all forms of payment.
