Canadian Freedom of Information Personnel: Views and Lessons Learned

Abstract

Though there is ample literature on freedom of information law, there is little information that considers the work of freedom of information [FOI] or access to information [ATI] coordinators and the challenges they face. It is even more concerning that no research of this kind has been done in Canada given federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal government commitments to FOI and ATI. Our research seeks to fill this gap. We interviewed nine FOI and ATI government personnel in Canada to explore the complexities of working in this field. We examine their responses to questions about the challenges in their work; the barriers that they encounter; their background and training; their goals; and their views on transparency and public administration. By interviewing those on the “front lines of records requests,” we not only gain insights into the realities of their work, but we also learn how FOI legislation and policies can be improved. These insights are particularly relevant in Manitoba, where the former Progressive Conservative government made many efforts to undermine the principles of FOI. These efforts include a refusal to respond to the Manitoba Ombudsman’s concerns and recommendations, which are, in part, informed by FOI personnel.