Minister Clement Champions Government's Innovation Efforts on Open Data and Open Government to International Experts

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 15, 2012) - The Honourable Tony Clement, President of the Treasury Board, told the leading internet governance association that the Government of Canada is committed to an open Internet through its Open Data initiative and its support for a multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance.

"I want to ensure citizens have greater access to information. The Internet is essential to foster greater openness and accountability, drive innovation and spur economic growth," Minister Clement told a meeting of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers in Toronto. "Canada will also continue to advocate a multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance."

Minister Clement discussed the Government's Open Data initiative, a portal which houses vast stores of government-collected data that has potentially valuable consumer applications. Some 273,000 datasets from 21 departments and agencies are free to download at www.data.gc.ca. Datasets range from building permits and border wait times to pollution emissions and vehicle recalls.

"The move to provide access to previously untapped public data is a growing global phenomena being embraced by countries around the world," said Minister Clement. "The possibilities for leveraging this resource to create practical, user-friendly applications that can fuel innovation and bolster growth are truly exciting."

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