Thanks to comparative tables and precise examples, this report offers an overall picture of the institutions guaranteeing access to information (IGAI) in OECD member countries. While it does not provide a comprehensive analysis of each of these institutions, it examines the legislation, the composition, and operation of the IGAIs as well as their missions regarding the spontaneous disclosure and appeals following access to information requests.
The purpose of this report is to assess the impact of new information technologies and new information management practices on open government in general, and the principles and application of the Access to Information Act in particular. This report first reviews the legal aspect of access to government information by reviewing the Access to Information Act and other relevant statutes such as the Copyright Act and the Archives Act. Next, it reviews current administrative practices within the federal government such as generating non-tax revenue, pricing practices and the establishment of "special operating agencies" that are likely to have an impact on access to government information. Third, the impact of new information technology on the way information is collected, stored and disseminated is examined with respect to how these developments are likely to affect access to government information. After reviewing legal, administrative and technological developments, the report then discusses the major issues related to the effective administration of the Access to Information Act during the 1990s. Where appropriate, the document recommends amendments to the Act or administrative practices that will ensure that the basic principles of the Act are maintained.
