Commissioner will continue to accept appeal forms and fee payments through mail despite new system
As part of its strategy to become more digitally accessible to Ontarians and provide more efficient services, the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (IPC) has launched a new system for filing appeals and paying appeal fees online.
Under the new system, appeals under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act can now be filed and paid for online, without any stamps required. Previously, appellants could only submit their appeal documents to the IPC by e-mail and pay appeal fees using a cheque or money order sent via direct mail.
“The right of Ontarians to challenge an institution’s decision in response to a freedom of information (FOI) request is essential,” Privacy Commissioner Patricia Kosseim said. “This right of appeal is key to upholding citizens’ right to know and ensuring public institutions follow Ontario’s access laws.”
Kosseim confirmed that the IPC would continue to accept appeal forms, supporting documents, and fee payments from those who prefer not to make payments online or are not comfortable with technology through the mail.
“Access to government information is essential to a healthy democracy. The public has a right to know about government decisions and actions affecting them,” Kosseim said. “Freedom of information requests are one of the ways they can exercise that right. By making it easier for people to file an appeal with our office − online, anytime − we hope to encourage Ontarians from all walks of life to exercise their right to know.”
Further information regarding the new system is available here.
