Unveiling the Flaws in Canada's Information Access Review
A recently announced federal review of Canada's Access to Information system has sparked significant concern among transparency advocates. The Treasury Board Secretariat unveiled this mandatory review, conducted every five years, in a news release issued late on June 21. Despite the government's pledge to gather input from a diverse array of Canadians, indigenous groups, experts, and other stakeholders in the coming weeks and months, many are questioning the integrity and effectiveness of the process.
The Access to Information Act allows individuals to request federal documents, ranging from internal emails to policy memos, for a nominal fee of $5. However, the system is often criticized as outdated and poorly managed, with federal agencies required to respond within 30 days or provide valid reasons for delays. Transparency advocates argue that the review's structure fails to address these longstanding issues, casting doubt on whether meaningful reform will emerge from this initiative.
Advocates Demand Independent Oversight for Credibility
One of the primary grievances among transparency advocates is the lack of independent oversight in the review process. Several concerned groups and individuals have urged Treasury Board President Shafqat Ali to ensure that the review is conducted by an independent panel rather than government insiders, citing a potential conflict of interest. This sentiment is echoed by experts who believe the government has little incentive to engage in substantial reform, further eroding trust in the process.
Law professor Michael Karanicolas, as reported in recent coverage, emphasized that the federal review 'doesn't have credibility' due to its internal nature. He pointed out that without external scrutiny, there is a risk that the review will merely serve as a formality rather than a genuine effort to enhance transparency. Posts found on X also reflect this skepticism, with users noting that previous reviews, such as the one five years ago, were perceived as superficial and lacking in real commitment to change.
Broader Implications for Government Transparency
The criticism of the Access to Information review comes amid broader concerns about transparency within the Canadian federal government. Advocates highlight Canada's relatively low standing on global right-to-information rankings, with a score of 93 out of a possible 150 points, placing the country 53rd out of 140 nations. This statistic underscores the urgency for systemic improvements to ensure Canadians have adequate access to government information.
Additionally, recent reports of federal agencies failing to meet compliance rates for information requests have fueled frustration. The Department of Finance, for instance, has been singled out for having the worst compliance rate among surveyed departments. As the current review unfolds, transparency advocates remain vigilant, hoping for reforms that will strengthen public access to information and restore faith in governmental accountability.