NB Ombudsman says legislation would reduce access to government information: The Canadian Press

Ombudsman says legislation would reduce access to government information

1 hour ago

FREDERICTON — New Brunswick's ombudsman says proposed changes to the province's Right to Information Act would result in reduced access to information, not more.

Bernard Richard says he's upset the number of exemptions for releasing information would go to 15 pages from one-and-a-half pages under the new bill.

He also told a legislature committee Tuesday that an increased cost to seek information would be extremely restrictive.

It currently costs $5 plus photocopying charges to seek government information.

If the changes are approved, it would cost $25, plus photocopying charges and a $30 per hour search charge.

Richard says he is pleased the proposed legislation would increase the scope of the act to include municipalities, police, universities and public agencies.

 
 

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