Survey: Albertans Take Privacy Seriously

September 6, 2000

Privacy is an important issue for Albertans. This is one of the conclusions from a recent survey commissioned by the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Alberta.

The survey, conducted in July 2000 with 604 Albertans, provides a snapshot of the opinions, concerns and wishes that Albertans have with regard to information and privacy issues.

One of the key findings of the survey was that Albertans are supportive of existing privacy legislation, as they understand it. They also support the active involvement of government in the protection of personal information.

Albertans do say the Province is doing reasonably well protecting their personal information. However, the levels of concern are high enough that privacy issues can be expected to remain on many people’s personal agendas.

The Commissioner’s Office has a legislative mandate to ensure that public bodies collect, use and disclose personal information appropriately. The Office also has a mandate to inform and educate Albertans about privacy issues. The survey has confirmed that Albertans would welcome education concerning how to protect and enhance the security of their own personal information.

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner will be holding a media availability on Friday, September 8, 2000 at 9 am at its offices located at 410, 9925 – 109 Street, Edmonton. Commissioner Bob Clark will be in attendance to answer questions regarding the survey results.