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ᐃᓄᒃᑎᑐᑦ
Inuinnaqtun
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Frequently Asked Questions Nunavut's Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act gives you the right to request access to government-held information, including information about you. It is the responsibility of the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner to ensure your right of access is protected. The following are answers to questions most frequently asked about the right of access to government-held information.
To which government organizations do the Acts apply? The ATIPP Act came into effect on in the Northwest Territories on December 31st, 1996 and became part of the law of Nunavut on division day. It applies to all territorial departments and most territorial agencies, boards and commissions, as well as Aurora College. The list of all of the government organizations covered by the Act, can be accessed directly from (web address of this Office) or www.gov.nu.ca/Nunavut/atip/pubs/html What kind of information may I request? The Act gives everyone a right of access to most recorded information held by government organizations. This information may appear on paper, microfilm or computer disk and includes things like photographs and maps. You also have the right to request access to and correction of government-held personal information about you. Personal information includes your address, sex, age, education and other information about you held by a government organization. May I use the Acts to request information held by non-governmental organizations? No. The Acts apply only to territorial government organizations. It does not apply to private companies, banks, credit bureaus, hospitals, doctors' records or federal government organizations. Where can I see copies of the Acts? Copies of the provincial Act are generally available for viewing throughout Nunavut at most government offices. You can also obtain a copy at the following web sites:
Okay, I know what information I want -- how do I ask for it? You can obtain the information you want, in many cases, just by calling, writing or visiting the appropriate government organization. (If unsure of an address or telephone number, consult the Blue pages in your telephone directory.) That didn't work -- now what? If you didn't obtain the information you want, make a written access to information request. That sounds complicated. Is it? Not at all. Simply follow these steps: Step 1: Complete a request form, or write a letter stating that you are requesting information under the Acts. (Request forms are available from government organizations across the territories or on line on this web site) Step 2: Forward the completed request form or letter to the "Access to Information and Privacy Co-ordinator" at the government organization most likely to have the information you are looking for. Please note: A $25 application fee must accompany your request, payable to "The Government of Nunavut" unless the information you are seeking is your own personal information. Are there any other costs? Depending on how much information you have requested and how difficult it is to locate and copy, you may be charged for photocopying, shipping costs, the time required to locate and prepare the records you've requested, or any other costs associated with replying to your request. You will be advised before the cost are incurred of the estimated cost. How long must I wait for a response to my request? Once a government organization receives your request and the application fee, you are entitled to a response within 30 calendar days. Will I receive everything I ask for? Not necessarily. While the Act provides a right of access to most government-held information, exemptions may apply. Exemptions describe circumstances in which the government can refuse to disclose information. And if access is denied? If a government organization denies you access to information, it must provide reasons for doing so, in writing, and inform you of your right to ask the Information and Privacy Commissioner to review the decision. Do I have to pay to file a Request for Review? No, there is no cost for asking the Information and Privacy Commissioner to review any matter. Is there a time limit for filing an appeal? Yes. Normally, your appeal must be filed within 30 days of receiving a decision from the government organization. I have more questions. Who can answer them? If you have questions of a general nature about access to government-held information or about the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, please contact the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner. About the Commissioner The Information and Privacy Commissioner is appointed by the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut. This independence from the government of the day allows the Commissioner to be impartial when carrying out duties under the Acts. |
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