Access to Information Modernization Action Plan Tracker

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Action:

Provide guidance to institutions on the consideration of the passage of time when applying discretionary exemptions.

Organization:

Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat

Category:

(C02) Enhancing Trust and Transparency

Subcategory:

(C02.3) Actions to support the right of access and consistent application of exceptions

Status:

Completed

Action Number:

C02.3.6

Target Date:

Fiscal Year 2024-25

Benefits:

Access to information (ATI) professionals consider the passage of time when applying discretionary exemptions under the Access to Information Act.

More records are released to Canadians, particularly historical records, in response to ATI requests following consideration of the passage of time.

Results:

In May 2024, the Government of Canada published the Policy Guidance on the Disclosure of Historical Records under the Access to Information Act. The new guidance identifies recommended non-statutory time thresholds to help federal institutions apply discretionary exemptions under the Access to Information Act (ATIA). The Policy Guidance is intended to enable a more efficient and consistent approach to the review and potential disclosure of historical records. This includes reducing processing delays and associated operational costs, as well as minimizing the need for lengthy consultations on whether a record could be released.