Officials Secrets Act still on the books

Seven years after the passage of the Access to Information Act, the Officials Secrets Act is yet to be repealed.



The Access to Information Act gives members of the public a right to information on the government service while the antiquated Official Secrets Act muzzles public servants.



Information Minister Olivia Grange told The Gleaner that the Officials Secrets Act will be rescinded as work starts on a review of the Access to Information Act.



She says her ministry is working closely with the Justice Ministry, as the revocation of the Officials Secrets Act will also facilitate the passage of the Whistle Blowers legislation.



Yesterday the joint select committee of Parliament reviewing the Access to Information Act held its first meeting for the legislative year, days before the prorogation of the House.



The committee, chaired by Grange, discussed administrative issues and provided an update on the work of the Access to Information Unit.



It was decided that the committee would invite submissions on proposed changes to the seven year old Access to Information law.



Deliberations on the legislation are expected to begin in late May or early June.