Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for the opportunity to speak to Bill 27, An Act to Amend the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act. This bill responds to recommendations made by the Information and Privacy Commissioner and the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight.

There are three main elements to this bill. The first element gives the Commissioner the power to subpoena documents and require the attendance of witnesses during the investigation involving access to records or the correction of personal information.

The second element sets out a process to ensure that even when the department does not respond to the recommendations of the Commissioner, the applicant or third party still has a decision that they can appeal to the Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories. This process is based on a deemed refusal system, when the Commissioner's recommendation is different from the decision made by the head of a public body. When the head of a public body does not respond, it is deemed a refusal of the Commissioner's recommendations. The decision can be then appealed to the Supreme Court.

The third main element gives the Commissioner powers to investigate and make recommendations in cases involving collection, use and disclosure of personal information. This amendment provides the Commissioner with several powers already in place, to review and make recommendation on access complaints.

Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the comments of the Standing Committee on Accountability and Oversight during their review of this legislation. In response to their concerns, the bill is amended to ensure that the head of a public body provides a written response after the Commissioner has made recommendations to a privacy matter. The proposed amendments strengthen the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act and are consistent with this government's commitment to providing open, accessible and accountable government to the people of the Northwest Territories.

Mr. Chairman, I would be pleased to answer any questions or concerns the committee may have on this legislation. Thank you.