5824-01957 — Canadian Food Inspection Agency
The complainant alleged that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) improperly withheld and redacted information from an Issue Detail Report. The complainant also alleged the use of improper 'white' redactions. The Information Commissioner found the complaint well-founded, ordering the CFIA to disclose most of the withheld third-party information, except for supplier names, procedural details, and product weighing processes. The Commissioner also recommended the CFIA stop using white redactions.
- Application of subsection 19(1) (personal information)
- Application of paragraphs 20(1)(b) and 20(1)(c) (confidential third-party information, financial impact)
- Improper use of negative (white) redactions
- CFIA's duty to assist the requester
Complaint well founded — disclosure ordered and recommendation made
The Commissioner found that the CFIA failed to establish that most of the withheld information met the requirements for exemption under paragraphs 20(1)(b) and 20(1)(c). The Commissioner also found the CFIA failed its duty to assist the requester by using improper white redactions.
AI-generated summary for reference only. Always verify against the official decision ↗
The CFIA was ordered to disclose specific third-party information and recommended to cease the use of negative (white) redactions.
- s.19(1) ATIA
- s.20(1)(b) ATIA
- s.20(1)(c) ATIA
- s.30(1)(a) ATIA
- s.30(1)(f) ATIA
- s.4(2.1) ATIA
This is a summary of a decision for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.