Canadian privacy & access decisions

The complainant alleged that Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) failed to conduct a reasonable search for records related to the Old Fort Band, Fort Babine Band, and Lake Babine Nation in British Columbia between 1871 and 1960. During the investigation, the Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) requested additional information from DFO regarding its search parameters and program areas tasked. In response, DFO conducted a second search, including an additional program area not originally tasked, which resulted in the retrieval of approximately 7000 additional responsive pages. The OIC concluded that DFO's initial search was not reasonable, but the subsequent search satisfied the requirement for a reasonable search. The Information Commissioner ordered DFO to complete the retrieval of the identified records and provide a new response to the complainant within 60 days. DFO agreed to implement the order.

• Whether Fisheries and Oceans Canada conducted a reasonable search for records