The Access to Information Act gives Canadian citizens the right to access information in federal government records. The Privacy Act provides citizens with the right to access personal information held by the government and protection of that information against unauthorized use and disclosure.

The President of the Treasury Board is the Minister responsible for government-wide administration of the legislation.

Part of this responsibility includes issuing Info Source, a directory of federal government information and related guides. Info Source publications support the federal government's ongoing commitment to promoting openness and the accessibility of information regarding its activities. They are key reference tools to assist members of the public in exercising their rights to request government information under the Access to Information Act and the Privacy Act.

Developing the community of access to information and privacy (ATIP) practitioners and equipping them with the necessary tools for professional success is another important CIOB activity, as is the provision of training and learning opportunities to the 250 Government of Canada institutions subject to the Access to Information Act and the Privacy Act.