Federal (Canada)Privacy ActWell-founded

Errant report sparks procedural changes at prison

Organization: Correctional Service of CanadaComplainant: Two prisoners at the Correctional Service of Canada’s Grande Cache Institution
Plain-language brief

Two prisoners at the Correctional Service of Canada’s Grande Cache Institution filed complaints after a prison report containing their personal information was found among a fellow inmate's personal effects. An investigation revealed that a contract worker had printed the report, which listed personal information of all inmates, and given it to a welding instructor. The report was later discovered in an offender's belongings, though it was unclear how it got there. Correctional Service officials acknowledged the privacy breach and implemented several corrective measures, including restricting the printing of such reports and reinforcing training on safeguarding personal information. The OPC's investigation confirmed a breach of the complainants' privacy rights. Due to the corrective actions already taken, the OPC did not require further action.

Key issues
  1. 1Whether the personal information of inmates was inappropriately disclosed
  2. 2Whether the Correctional Service of Canada adequately safeguarded personal information
Outcome breakdownFavours: Both, in part
  • Privacy breach: Breach confirmed
  • Corrective measures: Measures implemented
  • Further action: No further action required
Outcome

Complaint well-founded — corrective measures taken

Reasoning

The OPC found that the personal information of the complainants was inappropriately disclosed, constituting a breach of their privacy rights. However, the Correctional Service of Canada had already taken satisfactory corrective measures to address the issue.

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Decision notes
Recommended action / remedy

The Correctional Service of Canada implemented procedural changes, including restricting the printing of inmate reports and reinforcing training on safeguarding personal information, which the OPC found satisfactory.

This summary is informational only and not legal advice.

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