David Loukidelis, the incumbent Information and Privacy Commissioner for B.C., has been reappointed for another six-year term. The reappointment received unanimous approval of the B.C Legislative Assembly, following a recommendation of a special committee pursuant to s. 37(1) of the Freedom of Information and Privacy Act.
The special committee stated that after interviewing Mr. Loukidelis and reviewing his first term as Commissioner, it was impressed with his commitment, expertise and professionalism. The committee concluded it was unlikely the Legislative Assembly would find a more qualified applicant, and therefore decided not to undertake an open competition.
The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner is independent from government and monitors and enforces the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPPA) and Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA). FOIPPA provides the public access to information held by public bodies (such as ministries, universities and hospitals) and determines how public bodies may collect, use and disclose personal information. PIPA sets out how private organizations (including businesses, charities, associations and labour organizations) may collect, use and disclose personal information.