Summary: The Ministry of Finance (the ministry) received an access request under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) for non-public communications from the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), as well as follow-up exchanges, meeting notes and agendas on automobile insurance topics. The ministry denied access to the records in full or in part, citing the mandatory Cabinet records exemption in section 12(1) and the discretionary advice or recommendations exemption in section 13(1). This order finds that the records are not exempt under these exemptions. Statutes Considered: Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. F.31, as amended, sections 12(1) (introductory wording), 12(1)(b), and 13(1). Orders Considered: Orders PO-2495 and PO-3353.
[20] FSCO states that it sought input from the IBC as it is knowledgeable on how legislation and regulations affect the automobile industry, has a direct relationship with that industry and is able to advise FSCO and the government on the impact of reform proposals on that industry. It states that these considerations are relevant for discussions at Cabinet Committee meetings where policy decisions are made.