5820-01454 — Canadian Security Intelligence Service
The complainant alleged that CSIS failed to sufficiently identify which portions of the requested records were redacted and on what basis. CSIS used negative redactions and did not specify exemptions on the records themselves, claiming it could cause harm. The Information Commissioner found this insufficient, recommending CSIS provide a new response clearly identifying withheld portions and citing specific exemptions, cease using negative redactions, and cite exemptions on the records themselves. CSIS agreed to implement these recommendations.
- Adequacy of identification of redacted portions and grounds for withholding.
- Propriety of using negative redactions.
- Requirement to cite exemptions on the records themselves versus in response letters.
- CSIS's obligation to assist the requester.
Complaint well founded — disclosure ordered
The Commissioner found that CSIS failed to provide a cogent explanation for how marking redactions and exemptions would cause harm and concluded that CSIS did not meet its obligations regarding severance and the duty to assist.
AI-generated summary for reference only. Always verify against the official decision ↗
CSIS was recommended to provide a new response to the complainant that clearly identifies which portions of the records are withheld and cite, for each portion, the specific provision(s) of Part 1 of the Act under which they are redacted, cease the use of negative (white) redactions, and cease routinely citing the specific exemptions only in response letters.
- s.10 ATIA
- s.25 ATIA
- s.4(2.1) ATIA
This is an informational summary and not legal advice.