The complainant alleged that Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) had improperly withheld information under paragraph 18(b) (negotiations by government institution) and paragraph 20(1)(c) (financial impact on a third party) of the Access to Information Act in response to an access request for a list of grants and contributions approved under specific ISED programs, including assistance type and other specific details. The allegation falls under paragraph 30(1)(a) of the Act.

ISED could not show that it met all the requirements of paragraph 18(b), as the harm alleged by ISED already exists, and ISED did not demonstrate how further harm could be caused by the release of the information.

The Information Commissioner ordered that ISED disclose the information withheld under paragraph 18(b). ISED gave notice to the Commissioner that it would implement the order, while maintaining the exemption pursuant to paragraph 20(1)(c).

The complaint is well founded.