The Municipal Government Act provides authority for most of the activities and operations of municipal governments in Nova Scotia. It also contains provisions relating to freedom of information and protection of privacy. These provisions are found in Part XX of the MGA.
The intent of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIPOP) Act and Part XX of the MGA is to balance two principles:
- Freedom of information: whenever possible, information held by the municipality should be made available to the public.
- Protection of privacy: the municipality should not improperly collect or disclose personal information.
The legislation provides that members of the public have:
- the right to request access to information held by the municipality
- the right to access personal information about themselves that is held by the municipality
- the right to request correction to their personal information that is held by the municipality
- controls on the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information by the municipality
- the right to request independent review of decisions made under the access to information process
How do I apply?
To submit a request, please complete the application form, and return it to:
Town of Mahone Bay
PO Box 530
Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0
Attention: Kelly Munroe, Town Clerk
kelly.munroe@townofmahonebay.ca
How much do I pay?
An administration fee of $5 must be paid at the time of application. Additional fees may be required for the following services:
- locating, retrieving and producing the record
- preparing the record for disclosure
- shipping and handling the record
- providing a copy of the record
The first two hours spent locating and retrieving the records are free.
How do I pay?
There are several ways to pay for your FOIPOP application:
- Sending your payment in by mail
- Online using Interac e-transfer at finance@townofmahonebay.ca
- In person at our office using debit, cash, or cheque
How long does the process take?
Requests must be completed within 30 days. You will be advised in writing if your request takes longer to process.
What if I am not satisfied with the Municipality's response?
You have the right to request a review of our decision from the Information and Privacy Commissioner for Nova Scotia within 60 days of the date you receive the Municipality’s response by contacting:
Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Review Officer
502-5657 Spring Garden Road
PO Box 181 | Halifax, NS | B3J 2M4
Telephone: 1-866-243-1564
Fax: (902) 424-8303
E-mail: oipcns@novascotia.ca