The province’s information and privacy commissioner is recommending that the town of Howley review its social medial policies after the travel and isolation plans of two people were disclosed on Facebook.

Michael Harvey’s office received complaints from two people alleging their privacy had been breached when the Mayor of Howley disclosed information on their out-of-province travel and isolation requirements in a series of posts to a Facebook group. Emails to council members and town staff were also made on the topic.

The Privacy Commissioner says while the disclosures were made in order to protect the public in light of the pandemic, the town of Howley had no role in administering or enforcing the province’s emergency measures put in place on March 18.

He concludes that the town had no valid reason for disclosing personal information in that way, and recommends that the town review its social media policies.