Government secrecy is dangerous to democracy. It breeds mistrust between citizens and their elected representatives, and prevents journalists, organizations and citizens from being able to understand and question government plans and decisions.

Secrecy also makes the government prone to expensive mistakes. No person or group possesses all the information to make effective and responsible decisions – so it is vital that our “commonwealth of information” is shared widely among citizens, the government and organizations. Only this will allow the “free market of ideas” to work properly for the benefit of all.

A promise that should be kept. The BC Liberals were elected on a promise to be “the most open, accountable and democratic government in Canada.” But over the last five years they have steadily dismantled the Freedom of Information Act (FOIPPA), depriving citizens of their right to know. Ask the Liberals to keep their promise: open government through Freedom of Information.