Investigation process for allegations of breach of scientific integrity, Public Health Agency of Canada: Privacy impact assessment

(June 2022)

Description of program

The Investigation Process for Allegations of Breach of Scientific Integrity is designed to allow for the reporting and subsequent investigation (if required) of potential breaches of scientific integrity. The process is a multi-step process that collects personal information directly and indirectly from various individuals.

This initiative is administered by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC).

Why was a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) completed?

The Investigation Process for Allegations of Breach of Scientific Integrity required a PIA because personal information is used as part of a decision-making process that directly affects an individual.

The PIA examines the privacy-related risks of the Investigation Process for Allegation of Breach of Scientific Integrity and proposes methods to lower these risks.

More information

This PIA focused on the Public Health Agency of Canada's collection, use, disclosure and retention and disposition of personal information involved in the Scientific Integrity Lead's business processes. It did not include the processes related to post investigation reporting and "Lessons Learned", which includes reporting to the Accountable Senior Manager, relevant corporate services, and Labour Relations.

The PIA recommended mitigation actions in the following risk areas: limiting use, retention, and disclosure, openness, compliance, safeguarding personal information, and the creation of personal information bank (PIB).
If you would like more information about this Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) please contact: Public Health Agency of Canada's Privacy Management Division (PMD)
Holland Cross - Tower B
1600 Scott Street, 4th Floor, Suite 410B Postal Locator: 3107A
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9
E-mail:privacy-vieprivee@phac-aspc.gc.ca
Telephone: 613-946-3179
Fax: 613-941-4541
Teletypewriter: 1-800-465-7735 (Service Canada)