The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) joins with other information and privacy commissioners from across the country and around the world in actively promoting Right to Know (RTK) Week from September 23 to 28. Details are outlined on the OIPC website: www.oipc.nl.ca/events/right-to-know-week .

RTK Week recognizes the importance of the right of access to information held by government and other public bodies. Freedom of information is essential to both democracy and good governance. Access to information provides individuals with knowledge to address public issues, scrutinize government and become active participants in the democratic process.

In Newfoundland and Labrador the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 (ATIPPA, 2015) provides a right of access to information which enables the public to meaningfully participate in the democratic process by holding government accountable. Members of the public can also access their own personal health information via the Personal Health Information Act (PHIA).

On a national and international basis, access to information discloses environmental and health dangers and sheds light on errors, mismanagement and illegal activities. Access to information has also required improved records management, prompted routine disclosure of information and resulted in better and more effective government service.

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Media contact
Sean Murray
Director of Research and Quality Assurance
Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner
709-729-6309