How it Works: Right to Information Request PART I

RTI Stock

What is a Right to Information Request?

New Brunswick has a law called the Right to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (RTIPPA). Under this law, people can exercise their right to access information respecting public business or request to see or correct of their own personal information.

Who can file a request under RTIPPA?

Any Canadian of any age is entitled to request and receive information related to the public business of public bodies; have access to records containing personal information about themselves; or request corrections to records containing personal information about themselves in the custody and control of public bodies in accordance with the provisions of the Right to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (RTIPPA).

What information cannot be released to you?

There are two categories under which a public body may deny your request for information: Mandatory exceptions and discretionary exceptions.

Mandatory exceptions:

  • Cabinet documents and other records that would reveal Cabinet confidences
  • Information provided in confidence by another government or a First Nations council
  • Certain information relating to a harassment, personnel or university investigation
  • Personal information that would be considered an unreasonable invasion of a third party’s privacy
  • Information which would be harmful to a third party’s business or financial interests

Discretionary exceptions:

  • Information which would be harmful to relations between New Brunswick and other governments of First Nations councils
  • Information that would reveal local public body confidences
  • Advice, opinions and recommendations given to a public body
  • Legal advice given to a public body and other information subject to solicitor-client privilege
  • Information which would be harmful to an individual’s health or safety or to public safety in general

Additional Information

If you are requesting public or personal information on behalf of someone else, you will need written authorization to do so. This authorization can be in the form of a signed letter, a Power of Attorney, or other legislated authorization.