The complainant alleged that Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) did not conduct a reasonable search for records in response to an access request under the Access to Information Act. The request was for records related to complaints submitted to ESDC’s Labour Program. The allegation falls under paragraph 30(1)(a) of the Act.

As a result of the investigation, ESDC conducted additional searches and confirmed that further responsive records exist. ESDC advised that it intends to provide a supplemental release to the complainant.

The Information Commissioner ordered that ESDC process the additional records and provide a new response no later than 36 business days following the date of the final report. ESDC gave notice to the Commissioner that it would implement the orders. The complaint is well founded.