3217-02303 — Veterans Affairs Canada
The complainant alleged that Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) improperly withheld the names and service numbers of Arctic Star recipients under section 19(1) of the Access to Information Act. VAC initially withheld some information but disclosed a portion during the investigation. The Information Commissioner consulted the Privacy Commissioner, who agreed that the information could be released as it fell under an exception to the Privacy Act's definition of "personal information." VAC agreed to release the remaining undisclosed information.
- Whether the names and service numbers of Arctic Star recipients constitute "personal information" under subsection 19(1) of the ATIA.
- Whether the information falls under an exception to the definition of "personal information" in the Privacy Act.
- The applicability of subsection 19(1) to historical military service information.
Complaint well founded — disclosure ordered
The Information Commissioner found that the names and service numbers of Arctic Star recipients did not meet the requirements of subsection 19(1) because they fell under an exception to the definition of personal information in paragraph 3(j) of the Privacy Act, related to the individual's government position or functions. VAC agreed to disclose the remaining information.
AI-generated summary for reference only. Always verify against the official decision ↗
VAC was recommended to disclose the full names and service numbers of the recipients of the Arctic Star that had not yet been disclosed.
- s.19(1) ATIA
- s.3(j) Privacy Act
- s.36(1.1) ATIA
This is an informational summary only and does not constitute legal advice.