Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Nova Scotia)

The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPOP) is provincial legislation in Nova Scotia, Canada. Its primary purpose is to balance the public's right to access government information with the individual's right to privacy concerning personal information held by public bodies.

The Act establishes a general right of access to records held by public bodies, including government departments, agencies, boards, and commissions, subject to specific exceptions. These exceptions permit the public body to refuse to disclose information in certain circumstances, such as when the information is considered confidential, relates to law enforcement, or could harm the environment.

The FOIPOP Act also regulates the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information by public bodies. It mandates that public bodies only collect personal information that is necessary for a specific purpose and that they protect the confidentiality of that information. Individuals have the right to access and correct their own personal information held by public bodies.

Furthermore, the Act establishes an independent Information and Privacy Commissioner who is responsible for overseeing compliance with the FOIPOP Act, investigating complaints, and making recommendations to public bodies. The Commissioner can also order public bodies to disclose information or to change their information practices. The Commissioner reports to the Nova Scotia Legislature.

The FOIPOP Act promotes transparency and accountability in government while protecting the privacy rights of individuals. It provides a legal framework for citizens to access government information and to ensure that their personal information is handled responsibly.