Article content continued

“I think that’s specious on the part of the government because, clearly, they could release a lot of information that has nothing to do with the spill,” Sproule said.

The government has not explained how inspections conducted months or even years before the Husky spill are related to the investigation, and “the public needs openness and transparency around this, not more hiding,” she added.

In an emailed statement, a Ministry of the Economy spokesman reiterated the reasons outlined in the Sept. 8 letter and said it’s important that the investigation into the Husky spill be comprehensive.

“This will include but not be limited to: A full review of all operation plans and strategies for this pipeline, (which) will extend, as required, into Husky’s broader pipeline and general operations,” the statement said.

The Freedom of Information Act allows government to keep confidential records that “could be injurious” to its ability to enforce acts or regulations. The Husky spill is being investigated under the Pipeline Act, 1998, the Sept. 8 letter stated.

According to an exemption guide published by Information and Privacy Commissioner Ronald Kruzeniski’s office, records can be released unless there are “objective grounds for believing that disclosing the information could result in injury.”

In an appeal filed with Kruzeniski’s office on Monday, an NDP official said the records should be made available because “their release would in no way compromise Economy’s ongoing investigation into an isolated leak.”

Kruzeniski confirmed on Wednesday that his office received the NDP’s appeal and launched a review of the file, but said he cannot comment on any ongoing review until a final report is published.

Sproule said the government is probably “hiding behind” the fact that because some of the records covered by the request are protected, none are releasable, and that she hopes Kruzeniski will overturn its decision.

“Not all of this information is related to the investigation.”

amacpherson@postmedia.com

twitter.com/macphersona