Right to Know -- forgotten?

I received this news release today from P.E.I. Wouldn't it make more sense to send out a news release before Right to Know Week? And what about Right to Know Day -- why mention that when it was last week? Seems like someone forgot to say anything about our right to know...


October 2, 2007

ATTORNEY GENERAL PROCLAIMS RIGHT TO KNOW WEEK

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- International Right to Know Day is recognized worldwide as an opportunity to raise awareness about the right of individuals to access information held by public bodies.
In recognition of International Right to Know Day, September 28, and planned local activities, Attorney General Gerard Greenan has proclaimed September 28 - October 5, 2007 as Right to Know Week in Prince Edward Island.
“I hope this declaration of Right to Know Week will help to raise public awareness about the public’s right of access to information,” said Attorney General Greenan. “Islanders expect their provincial government to operate in a manner that is both transparent and accessible. We are responsible to ensure Islanders know they have a right to request information held by government departments.”
The Minister said, in the past year from November 2006 to September 2007, provincial government departments have received 51 requests for information.
The Attorney General thanked Karen Rose, Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner, and the local Right to Know steering committee for organizing local activities in recognition of Right to Know Week. Activities include an essay writing contest, poster contest and public information forums.
More than 60 countries have legislation promoting access to information, and more countries are in the process of developing such laws. The Prince Edward Island Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act was proclaimed on November 1, 2002 to make government more open and accountable, and insure that Islanders’ personal information held by government is protected. The Act covers the records of provincial government departments, agencies, boards, commissions and crown corporations. School Boards were added under the Act in November, 2003.


Weblinks:
Right to Know Canada -
PEI FOIPP page
PEI Information and Privacy Office