Access & Privacy Information

How to Make a Request for Information

For information that is not normally available from a public body, a request can be made under the Act. A request must be made in writing. The request can be made using the Request for Access to Information form provided or by writing a letter to the public body. If you are writing a letter, please indicate that you are making the request under the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

How to Request Access to Information held by Public Bodies:

  • Identify the information that you want to access. Be as specific as possible. If you are not sure what records you want to access, contact the Access and Privacy Coordinator/Contact of the appropriate public body for assistance.
  • Provide your name, address, and a telephone number where the Coordinator can contact you with any questions about the request.
  • Sign the request form or letter.
  • Send the completed request form or letter and the initial fee (if required) to the Coordinator of the public body most likely to have the information. The mailing address is given in this directory.

If you are not sure that you have the correct public body, call the Coordinator and check first. If you send the request to the wrong public body, the Coordinator will have to transfer the request to the public body that has the records, resulting in a delay.

Public bodies must respond to your request within 30 days of receiving it if they can. In some cases, they may need more time to process your request and will advise you of when the response will be provided.

A fee will be charged for requests for information that is not your own personal information. When an initial fee is required, it must be paid before the request will be processed. If there are additional fees, you will be informed of the estimated cost, and you must advise the public body whether or not you want to proceed with the request. Refer to the current fee schedule or contact the Coordinator for the amount charged. If you are requesting your own personal information, there may be a charge for producing the copies.

Request for Access to Information Form

For more information, please contact:

Records and Access Co-ordinator
Policy and Planning Division
Department of Justice
Government of the Northwest Territories
PO Box 1320
Yellowknife NT X1A 2L9
(867) 920-6418