Based on coverage from The Star and Lethbridge News Now.
Premier Tim Houston's Controversial FOI Stance
Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia has found himself at the centre of a heated debate over freedom of information (FOI) requests. His repeated anecdote about a supposed request for "security schematics" of a youth detention centre has been used to justify his refusal to grant order-making powers to the provincial information watchdog. However, the story doesn't align with the actual FOI request, which sought details about a 2016 riot at the Waterville youth detention centre, including photos and videos of the incident.
Discrepancies in Houston's Claims
Houston's narrative has been challenged by journalists and advocates who argue that the original request did not involve security schematics. The Canadian Press requested records related to the riot, not detailed security plans. Despite this, Houston maintains that releasing such information could compromise public safety. His office argues that even if schematics weren't explicitly requested, the nature of the request could lead to their disclosure.
Legislative Changes and Criticisms
Houston's stance marks a significant shift from his 2021 campaign promise to empower the information commissioner with order-making authority. Critics, including Ken Rubin, a freedom of information advocate, and Brent Jolly, president of the Canadian Association of Journalists, accuse Houston of backtracking on transparency commitments. Rubin suggests that Houston's recent legislative amendments have made accessing government records more challenging, while Jolly calls the premier's justification "absurd."
Information Commissioner's Perspective
David Nurse, the current information and privacy commissioner, acknowledges some positive steps in the recent legislative changes, such as expanded privacy oversight for municipal governments. However, he continues to push for a 90-day review limit and greater procedural independence for his office. Nurse remains hopeful that further improvements could be made by 2026, as the government has 18 months to implement the new law.
Nova Scotia's History of Secrecy
Nova Scotia's track record on transparency has been rocky. The province was once dubbed the most secretive in Canada by the Canadian Association of Journalists. Calls for updated legislation and more resources have been ongoing, with past commissioners describing the FOI system as barely functioning. The debate over Houston's handling of FOI requests underscores the broader issue of government transparency and accountability in Nova Scotia.
As the province moves forward, the balance between public safety and the public's right to information remains a contentious topic. The outcome of this debate could shape the future of transparency in Nova Scotia, impacting how citizens access information about their government.
Coverage was consistent across the sources provided, with no meaningful differences in reporting. No meaningful differences in coverage were found across the sources provided.
