Media Advisory - Information and Privacy Commissioner Speaking in London this Right to Know Week

TORONTO, Sept. 26, 2016 /CNW/ - Ontario's Information and Privacy Commissioner Brian Beamish will be discussing the importance of Open Government and furthering public sector transparency at Western University tomorrow.

The event coincides with the international Right to Know Week 2016.  Celebrated in more than 40 countries around the world, the purpose of Right to Know Week (September 26 to October 2) is to raise awareness of an individual's right to access government information, while promoting freedom of information as essential to both democracy and good governance.

Commissioner Brian Beamish on Right to Know Week:

"This year marks the 250^th anniversary of the world's first access to information legislation and so this Right to Know Week presents a chance to reflect on how far we have come in Ontario and more importantly, the path we would like to take. Ontario's access to information and privacy laws are now 30 years old and have therefore not been appropriately updated to align with changes in technology and the public's expectations regarding access to government-held information. Creating a more open and accountable government is vital, so I am renewing my call to the Ontario government to conduct a comprehensive, public review of our access and privacy laws.  Let's work together to increase the transparency and accountability of government institutions, and modernize our access and privacy rights.  

Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Location: Council Chambers, University Community Centre, Western University, London, Ontario  

Main Presentation
Brian Beamish, Commissioner
9:00 a.m. to 9:40 a.m.

Concurrent Panel Presentations:  
A. Protecting personal health information in an electronic environment with
Manuela Di Re, Director of Legal Services  
Debra Grant, Director of Health Policy
B. Working towards a more transparent and accountable government with
David Goodis, Assistant Commissioner, Policy and Corporate Services
Sherry Liang, Assistant Commissioner, Tribunal Services
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Q and A sessions will follow each presentation. IPC speakers are available for interviews upon request. 

SOURCE Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner/Ontario

Media contact: Trell Huether, Senior Communications Advisor, Media Line: 416-326-3965, [email protected]