Statistics Canada takes reasonable measures to safeguard census data transferred to Shared Services Canada

This investigation concerned a complaint alleging that Statistics Canada (StatCan) improperly disclosed confidential census data to Shared Services Canada (SSC) when transferring its IT infrastructure. The complainant also raised concerns about the adequacy of safeguards and supervision of SSC employees handling the data. The OPC found that StatCan did not disclose personal information contrary to the Privacy Act, as it was legally required to transfer its IT infrastructure to SSC. Furthermore, StatCan took reasonable measures to define its relationship with SSC and ensure privacy and security considerations were addressed.

• Whether StatCan improperly disclosed confidential census data to SSC.
• Whether StatCan took reasonable measures to safeguard the census data transferred to SSC's IT infrastructure.
• Whether StatCan adequately supervised SSC employees with access to the data.
• Whether the transfer of data was consistent with the Statistics Act and the Privacy Act.