CanadaCan the government refuse my access to information request because it involves someone else's personal information?
Yes, the government can refuse your access to information request if it contains another person's personal information, as required by section 19 of the Access to Information Act.
What the Law Says
The Access to Information Act sets out when federal institutions must withhold information from public disclosure. Section 19 is a mandatory exemption — meaning institutions have no discretion to release the information if it applies.
Section 19 prevents the disclosure of records that contain personal information about someone other than the requester. This protects the privacy rights of third parties under Canadian law.
The exemption applies even if the requester believes the information is in the public interest or relates to their own concerns — the law prioritizes the privacy of the individual whose information is at issue.
Statutory TextHead of a government institution shall refuse to disclose records containing personal information about another individual.
— Access to Information Act, s. 19 — Personal information exemption
What to Do
Review your request to identify whether it seeks records containing personal information about others (e.g., names, addresses, health or financial details).
Consider narrowing your request to exclude third-party personal information — for example, ask for redacted versions where possible.
If your request is refused under section 19, you may ask the institution to explain which parts were withheld and why.
You may also file a complaint with the Office of the Information Commissioner of Canada if you believe the refusal was unjustified.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.