This week I bring you a tale of two Michaels.
First up is Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia Michael McEvoy, whose tenure comes to an end — no, he was not seeking reappointment. McEvoy has been a true champion for access to information and privacy for a long time. One of the things I have really appreciated, in terms of consistency and clarity of obligations, is seeing British Columbia collaborate with so many other data protection authorities — across Canada through joint investigations and around the world as the secretariat to the Asia-Pacific Privacy Authorities group. I hope this stuff continues.
Now enter Information and Privacy Commissioner of Newfoundland and Labrador Michael Harvey, who has been tapped to replace McEvoy. Harvey received unanimous recommendation this week from the special committee charged with appointments.
Like McEvoy, Harvey has a strong track record in access to information and privacy. I've enjoyed getting to know him and I'm looking forward to seeing what will come out of British Columbia next on his watch. He formally assumes the role 6 May and inherits a strong team.
I was thrilled both McEvoy and Harvey were among the many Canadians at the IAPP Global Privacy Summit 2024, which was such an awesome event. Now that GPS is behind us, it's time to get excited for the IAPP Canada Privacy Symposium, which runs 8-11 June with a two training days and two main conference days. The IAPP Canadian Advisory Board sifted through a ton of proposals to produce an excellent program. Check it out and make sure you register because seats are filling fast.
Among the ripple effects of the news about McEvoy and Harvey, of course, is the impact on the annual "Commissioners Game Show" at CPS. I know, I know, there are probably more important things. But now I have to wonder who will be joining from Newfoundland and Labrador. You see, we have an awesome theme this year — perhaps the best yet — and I am always grateful so many of our provincial commissioners choose to participate.
In other news, the CPS registration pace is certainly faster than our politicians reviewing Bill C-27. Did you catch that much-ado-about-nothing, clause-by-clause consideration of C-27 before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry and Technology this week? So disappointing that they chose to play partisan games rather than advancing the substance of the bill. Let's get on with it, folks.
Have a great weekend everyone!