Ontario Releases First Discussion Paper on Promoting Public Trust and Confidence in Ontario’s Data Economy

“The development of Ontario’s Data Strategy is a great opportunity to leverage the potential of data in ways that benefit businesses and Ontarians,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Government and Consumer Services. “This is the first of three Discussion Papers that we will release. These Discussion Papers are a chance to begin a very important conversation with the people of Ontario, and represent an opportunity to be transparent about how our government thinks about data.”

As part of the second round of consultations, the government is also launching a user-friendly online platform, EngageON, so that all Ontarians can participate in the conversation.

“We’re really excited about the launch of the EngageON digital platform. It provides a convenient place for people to have their say, using the feedback method they’re most comfortable with,” said Thompson. “Tackling the issues and taking advantage of the opportunities in the data economy will require a wide range of perspectives, and this tool is the perfect way to collect this valuable insight.”

On the EngageON platform, anyone in Ontario can:

• Take part in an online dialogue about the Discussion Papers;
• Submit a formal, written submission about Ontario’s Data Strategy, and;
• Register for in-person events in six communities across Ontario.

Ontarians can view the first Discussion Paper and provide their feedback through the online platform at EngageON.

In-person consultations will also be held in the summer and fall in Sarnia, Stratford, Sault Ste. Marie, Peterborough and Ottawa, with more potential locations to come. Ontarians can register for in-person consultations through the EngageON platform.

The province will release two additional Discussion Papers online for public comment, as it works toward the release of a final Data Strategy at the end of 2019.