5823-04301 — Public Health Agency of Canada
The complainant alleged that the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) unreasonably extended the time to respond to an access request for correspondence related to a specific standing offer. PHAC claimed an extension of 255 days due to the volume of records, citing a need for 180 days under paragraph 9(1)(a). The Commissioner found that PHAC failed to demonstrate that the 180-day extension was reasonable, as it did not show sufficient rigour in calculating the time needed. Consequently, the extension was deemed invalid, and PHAC was ordered to provide a complete response within 60 business days.
- Reasonableness of time extension under subsection 9(1)(a)
- Definition of a 'large number of records'
- Adequacy of justification for processing time
- Deemed refusal of access under subsection 10(3)
Complaint well founded — PHAC ordered to provide a complete response within 60 business days.
The Commissioner found that PHAC did not demonstrate sufficient rigour and logic in determining the 180-day extension period required under paragraph 9(1)(a) for processing a large volume of records, rendering the extension invalid. Therefore, the complaint was well founded.
AI-generated summary for reference only. Always verify against the official decision ↗
The Minister of Health is ordered to provide a complete response to the access request no later than the 60th business day following receipt of the final report.
- subsection 9(1) ATIA
- paragraph 9(1)(a) ATIA
- paragraph 9(1)(b) ATIA
- paragraph 9(1)(c) ATIA
- subsection 10(3) ATIA
- paragraph 30(1)(c) ATIA
This is an informational summary only and not legal advice.