By: Drew Yewchuk
PDF Version: Is The Canadian Energy Centre A Department, Branch or Office of the Government of Alberta?
Decision Commented On: Re Canadian Energy Centre Ltd, Order F2022-16 (AB OIPC)
The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) released a Re Canadian Energy Centre Ltd, Order F2022-16 finding that the Canadian Energy Centre (CEC), which is also known as the ‘War Room’, is not subject to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, RSA 2000, c F-25 (FOIP). This is the outcome the Alberta government intended when creating the CEC, and Alberta Energy participated in the hearing to argue the CEC was not subject to FOIP. Despite that, my view is that the OIPC adjudicator made errors in interpreting FOIP and their conclusion is wrong. The CEC is a ‘public body’ subject to FOIP. Continue reading