Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (ATIP)
As part of transitioning to the new legislation, the Town of Vegreville is updating notifications on various forms and webpages for its collection of personal information. Personal information that was collected under the authority of section 33(c) of the FOIP Act is now collected under section 4(c) of the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA). If you have questions about a notification statement during this transition period, please reach out using the contact information included in that notification statement.
Access and Privacy Legislation
As a municipality, the Town is subject to the Access to Information Act (ATIA) and the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA). Together, the Town of Vegreville will be referring to these acts as ATIP. This legislation came into force on June 11, 2025 and replaced the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP).
1. Right of Access to Records
Individuals have the right to request and obtain records held by public bodies in Alberta, subject only to limited and specific exceptions. This ensures transparency, accountability, and public trust in government operations.
2. Limited and Specific Exceptions to Disclosure
Information may be withheld only when disclosure could cause specific harm (e.g., personal privacy, public safety, commercial confidentiality, law enforcement, etc.). Exceptions must be interpreted narrowly, and non-exempt portions must still be released.
3. Protection of Personal Privacy
Public bodies may collect only the minimum personal information necessary for authorized programs or activities, must use it only for the purposes for which it was collected (or a consistent purpose), and may disclose it only as authorized by ATIP or with consent.
4. Accuracy, Security, and Individual Rights
Public bodies must take reasonable steps to ensure personal information is accurate, complete, and secure. Individuals have the right to access their own personal information and request corrections.
5. Fair, Timely, and Accountable Process
ATIP sets clear timelines for responding to access requests (generally 30 days), requires public bodies to assist applicants, and provides independent review and complaint mechanisms through the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta.
Making an Access to Information Request
The Access to Information Act allows anyone to formally request access to any record in the custody or under the control of the Town. If you are requesting your personal information, there is no initial fee, however administrative fees may be assessed in some circumstances. If you are requesting general information, there is an initial fee of $25, and in some cases, additional fees may be assessed. Fees can be paid by credit card, debit, cash or cheque. Please do not mail cash.
To make an Access to Information Request, please send the completed Access to Information Form with the associated fee to the Town of Vegreville Access to Information Coordinator. Submissions may also be submitted in-person at Town Office or by mail:
Town of Vegreville
Attention: Legislative Services
4829-50 Street PO Box 640
Vegreville, AB T9C 1R7