Extension For Review Officer

Darce Fardy, a former journalist, will continue to oversee how the provincial government protects the privacy of Nova Scotians and handles requests for information.

Mr. Fardy's five-year term has been extended for another year, until Jan. 24, 2006. He was first appointed as review officer under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act in 1995.

"I'm pleased that Mr. Fardy has agreed to an extended term," said Justice Minister Michael Baker. "The courts have recognized our legislation as being among the most open, progressive information and privacy laws in the country. Mr. Fardy will continue to help people benefit from those laws."

The review officer is an independent ombudsman appointed by the Governor in Council for a term of five to seven years. The review officer will accept appeals from people who are not satisfied with the response they received from a government department or other public body.

Once a review has concluded, the review officer will produce a report which may make recommendations to the public body. The public body must respond in writing. If the applicant or a third party is not satisfied with the outcome of a review, an appeal may be made to the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.