The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) provides Manitobans and others with a right of access to records of public bodies, subject to certain specified exceptions, and with protection for personal information held by public bodies. The Act also provides for independent review by the Manitoba Ombudsman of the decisions and actions of public bodies relating to access to records and personal information protection. Final appeals about denial of access to information may be made under FIPPA to the Court of Queen’s Bench.

FIPPA came into force for Manitoba government departments and agencies on May 4, 1998 and the City of Winnipeg on August 31, 1998. On April 3, 2000, it was extended to all local governments, school divisions, community colleges, universities, regional health authorities and hospitals.

The Minister of Culture, Heritage and Tourism is responsible for central administration and coordinaton of FIPPA. The head of a public body is accountable for the response to access applications and the management of personal information by that public body.