Common Freedom of Information Terminology
FIPPA
"FIPPA" is the acronym for the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Record
“Record” includes books, documents, maps, drawings, photos, letters, calendars and any other means upon
which information is recorded, but does not include a computer program or any other mechanism that produces
records.
Personal Information
"Personal information" is recorded information about an identifiable individual. Keep in mind however, that the name, title, business telephone or business email of an employee is not considered personal information. Examples of personal information that are often found in records or documents:
- name, address or telephone number
- race, national or ethnic origin, colour, and religious or political beliefs or associations
- age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status or family status
- identifying number, symbol or other particulars assigned to an individual
- fingerprints, blood type or inheritable characteristics
- health care history, including a physical or mental disability
- anyone else’s opinions about the individual
- individual’s personal views or opinions, except if they are about someone else.
Third Party
“Third party” in relation to a request for access to a record, means any person, group of persons or organization other than the person who made the request, that may have personal privacy or business interests that are potentially impacted by release of the requested information.
Severing
"Severing" is to remove information to which an exception applies while disclosing the remainder of the record. Also called redacting.
Exceptions
"Exeptions" are limited and specific circumstances under which the university may withhold information. Exceptions are either mandatory or discretionary under FIPPA.
