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How to Contact the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC), Newfoundland and Labrador

The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) of Newfoundland and Labrador plays a crucial role in ensuring the protection of privacy rights and the accessibility of public information. This guide provides detailed information on how to contact the OIPC for inquiries, complaints, and other matters related to privacy and information access.

Contact Methods for the OIPC

1. Phone Contact

For immediate assistance or to discuss privacy concerns directly, you can reach the OIPC through the following phone numbers:

• General Inquiries: 709-729-6309
• Fax: 709-729-6500
• Toll-Free (Within Newfoundland and Labrador): 1-877-729-6309

These numbers are ideal for general questions, reporting issues, or seeking guidance on privacy-related matters.

2. Email Contact

If you prefer to communicate via email, the OIPC provides an official email address for inquiries and formal correspondence:

• Email: commissioner@oipc.nl.ca

Email is particularly useful for submitting detailed inquiries, formal complaints, or any documents that require review by the OIPC.

3. Mailing Address

For traditional correspondence, such as submitting formal documents or requests by mail, you can send your letters to the following address:

• Mailing Address:
  Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner
  P.O. Box 13004, Station “A”
  St. John’s, NL A1B 3V8
  Canada

Mailing is suitable for formal submissions, complaints, or documents requiring official review.

4. Office Location and Hours

If you need to visit the OIPC in person, the office is located at:

Physical Address:
Sir Brian Dunfield Building
3rd Floor, 2 Canada Drive
St. John’s, NL A1B 3V8
Canada

Office Hours:

• Regular Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Summer Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Visiting the office in person is recommended for urgent matters or when face-to-face consultation is necessary.

5. Online Resources and Forms

The OIPC’s website provides a range of resources, including forms for submitting complaints, guidance documents, and information on privacy rights. These resources can be accessed through the following link:

• Website: OIPC Newfoundland and Labrador

Online resources are perfect for those who prefer self-service options or need to access specific forms and information.

Key Contacts at the OIPC

The OIPC is staffed by professionals who specialize in privacy and information access. Key contacts include:

• Acting Information and Privacy Commissioner: Jacqueline Lake Kavanagh
• Director of Research and Quality Assurance: Sean Murray
• Business Manager: Jacquie Brown
• Senior Access and Privacy Analyst: Andrew Collins

For specific inquiries, you may be directed to the appropriate analyst or manager based on the nature of your request.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Fax Issues: If you’ve recently sent a fax and have not received a response, it is advised to follow up with a phone call to ensure your communication was received.
• Delayed Email Responses: Ensure you have the correct email address (commissioner@oipc.nl.ca) and check your spam folder if you do not receive a timely reply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I make a privacy complaint?
A: You can make a privacy complaint by filling out the appropriate form available on the OIPC website and submitting it via email, mail, or in person.

Q: What are my rights under ATIPPA, 2015?
A: The Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 (ATIPPA, 2015) outlines your rights regarding access to public information and the protection of your personal privacy. Detailed information can be found here.

Q: How do I report a privacy breach?
A: Public bodies and custodians can report privacy breaches by following the process detailed on the OIPC website.