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Annual report of the Yukon Ombudsman
The Yukon Ombudsman, Information and Privacy Commissioner (IPC), and the Public Interest Disclosure Commissioner (PIDC), Jason Pedlar, has released his first annual report that highlights an increase in cases, quick and effective resolution of files, and opportunities for change to better serve Yukoners.
The 2022 Annual Report shows that the work had an 18% increase in files compared to 2021. There was a 32% increase with access to information and privacy complaints, followed by a 26% increase in Ombudsman complaint investigations. The majority (79%) of our 2022 files were with the IPC that oversees the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (ATIPPA) and the Health Information Privacy and Management Act (HIPMA). The five public investigation reports that were issued from our office came from the IPC.
“The majority of our complaint cases are resolved through informal investigations and are often closed quicker than our statutory deadlines”, said Jason Pedlar, Yukon Ombudsman, IPC and PIDC. “However, if we are unable to reach a resolution informally or if we believe that a matter may be systemic, widespread, or have a broad public interest, the matter will then go to our Formal Investigation team,” said Pedlar.
The Ombudsman substantiated or partially substantiated 66% of complaints, with 92% of those complaints filed against the Government of Yukon. The institution also oversees other public authorities, such as, Yukon University, our hospitals, boards, professional and occupational associations, etc.
The PIDC had triple the inquiries this reporting year and opened two new files. The investigators closed 14 files, 13 were carried over from previous years.
The Annual Report also identifies opportunities for improvement that would better serve Yukoners. IPC recommendations continue to be rejected by public bodies - only 19% of our recommendations out of four of our formal investigations were accepted. Pedlar also identifies how the low number of privacy breaches may be an indication that they are not being reported. He also explains how Yukon is one of the few jurisdictions in Canada to not oversee municipalities, and the only office in Canada who cannot investigate an issue (own motion) without a public complaint.
The 2022 Annual Report is now available on the website in English and in French, and will be followed by the 2023/24 Annual Report in fall 2024.
Source: Yukon Ombudsman, Canada
