5824-03656 — Library and Archives Canada
The complainant alleged that Library and Archives Canada (LAC) failed to respond to an access request within the 30-day timeframe. The request sought extensive information on Métis Nation land titles, treaties, and communications with Indigenous organizations. LAC determined the request was too broad and lacked specificity for their employees to identify records with reasonable effort, and thus did not meet the requirements of section 6 of the Access to Information Act. The Information Commissioner agreed that the request was too vague and did not require LAC to respond.
- Whether the access request provided sufficient detail to identify records with reasonable effort, as required by section 6 of the ATIA.
- Whether LAC made reasonable efforts to seek clarification from the complainant.
- Whether LAC was required to undertake extensive historical and legal research to identify responsive records.
Complaint not well founded
The Information Commissioner found that the access request was too broad and vague. LAC could not identify specific records with reasonable effort, and their attempts to seek clarification were appropriate. Therefore, LAC was not required to respond to the request.
AI-generated summary for reference only. Always verify against the official decision ↗
- s.7 ATIA
- s.30(1)(a) ATIA
- s.6 ATIA
- s.4(2.1) ATIA
- s.10(3) ATIA
This is a summary of a decision for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.