Bills on Access to Information, national security measures to cap spring sitting of Parliament

By Jonathan Ablett | June 27, 2017

The Canadian government plans to amend the legislation on Access to Information and national security.

The planned amendments include giving the information commissioner the power to order release of government records and ensuring the access law applies to the offices of the prime minister, cabinet members and administrative institutions that support Parliament and the courts. The bill to be introduced Monday, June 19, 2017 could be the first substantial set of amendments to the access law in 34 years. The government has also promised a full review of the law by 2018, and mandatory reviews every five years thereafter.

The current system has been almost universally criticized as slow, out of date and plagued by loopholes that allow agencies to cling to information, including files more than half-a-century old.

On Tuesday, June 20, 2017, the government plans to remodel several anti-terrorism measures and introduce new provisions with a bill titled “An Act respecting national security measures.”

In addition to new scrutiny for the Canada Border Services Agency, the bill will propose changes to ensure existing security watchdogs can exchange information and collaborate more easily on reviews.

The legislation aims to strike a balance that ensures security agencies have the tools they need to keep Canadians safe, while respecting the rights and freedoms of a democratic society.

See more at globalnews.ca/

Client Testimonials

Great corporate lawyer team! Friendly, knowledgeable, and takes the time to get to know their clients before the $ clock starts.

List Auto

Jon at QPL was very helpful with the closing of my house sale - very efficient!

Marlisa A.

This is the third time I've used Jonathan Ablett for buying or selling a house. The first time was three and a half years ago, then this past month he helped with the home we sold and then the house we just bought. He is very professional, makes an effort to have a flexible schedule, always works in your best interest, and will answer every question you have. I recommend him to anyone requiring a lawyer for property reasons.

Jordan M.

We worked with Jon Ablett. In addition to being prompt, flexible, and organized, he did a great job of explaining the legal details of all our cases. The service we receive from Jon Ablett and Quarry Park Law is consistently thorough and efficient. The staff have been a pleasure to work with and we would recommend them for real estate and business law in particular.

Robin C.

Professional and effective service. I would like to take this chance to thank Alex for legal advise on a business matter & Jonathan for the smooth transition on the sale and purchase of our homes and coming all the way to Edmonton!
Quarry Park Lawyers made me impressed by how professional and knowledgeable they are. I highly recommend this firm, whether it's a real estate matter or a business (corporate) matter. Again, thank you Alex & Jonathan!

Michelle P.

Recently worked with Alya. I was extremely impressed with the results we got. She was very accommodating and very patient with all my questions. Will definitely come back for any future legal needs.

Matt D.

I wish to acknowledge the professionalism, and support that we have received from Alya Nazarali. Alya was there to educate and advise us each step of the way in our legal matters. I appreciated the way Alya took the time to understand our situation and built our case by negotiating, and mediating positively on my behalf with a purpose to continually move progress forward. I recommend Alya and Quarry Park Law to anyone seeking fair and professional legal representation with family law matters.

Nicola P.

Had the pleasure of working with Alya Nazareli, she was timely and always on top of things. In the end she got me exactly the result I requested... plus more.. great work Alya, I truly appreciate your hard work and dedication to my matter.

Levi B.

Very helpful. Friendly and professional service. Thank you.

Ange L.

Was referred here by legal aid but very impressed. Very efficient, will use them again for legal needs.

Alison J.

Jon was always prompt in his response time. He displayed high level of knowledge and professionalism in dealing with both our real estate transactions as well as our corporation. Thank you!

Raegan T.