Introduction

The Access to Information Act (R.S.C. 1985, c. A-1) came into force on July 1, 1983. The Act grants Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and persons residing in Canada the right to access information in records held by the federal government, except for types of information falling under the exemptions or exclusions. Section 94 of the Act requires every head of a federal government institution to submit a report to Parliament on the administration of the Act within their institution during the fiscal year.

This report is submitted in accordance with section 94 of the Act. It presents an overview of Access to Information Act activities carried out within Environment and Climate Change Canada during the reporting period of April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019. Further, since the Canada Emission Reduction Incentives Agency was not operational during this reporting period, an Agency report will not be prepared for this period.

The Department of the Environment was established by the Government Reorganization Act (1970-71-72, c. 42) on June 10, 1971. A number of acts and regulations provide the Department with its mandate and allow it to carry out its programs. Under the Department of the Environment Act, the powers, duties and functions of the Minister of the Environment extend to and include matters relating to:

• the preservation and enhancement of the quality of the natural environment, including water, air and soil quality
• renewable resources, including migratory birds and other non-domestic flora and fauna
• water
• meteorology
• the enforcement of any rules or regulations made by the International Joint Commission relating to boundary waters
• the coordination of the policies and programs of the Government of Canada respecting the preservation and enhancement of the quality of the natural environment