FIPMA

FIPMA stands for the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. It is a piece of legislation that governs access to information held by public bodies and the protection of personal information. The Act aims to balance the public's right to know with the individual's right to privacy.

In essence, FIPMA allows individuals to request access to records held by government institutions, including departments, agencies, and public utilities. There are, however, specific exemptions outlined in the Act that may prevent the disclosure of certain information, such as personal details of other individuals, cabinet confidences, or information that could harm security interests. When a request is made, the public body must respond within a specified timeframe.

Simultaneously, FIPMA sets rules for how public bodies collect, use, and disclose personal information. It mandates that personal information can only be collected for purposes that are related to the functions of the public body and that individuals have a right to access and correct their own personal information. The Act also establishes information and privacy commissioners who oversee its implementation and can investigate complaints.