Susan Bartsch
Privacy Protection / Freedom of Information Officer
Trent University
1600 West Bank Drive
Peterborough, Ontario
K9J 7B8

Re: Request for Information Relating to the DNA Cluster Project

Dear Ms. Bartsch,

We note section III.1 of Trent University’s “Policy on Privacy Protection and Freedom of Information” specifies;

Further, it is the University's view that the freedom to access information is essential for an effective and informed University community.[1]

We also note President Patterson’s public commitment to “increasing the transparency of the University's operations” as recorded in the minutes of the Board of Governors, January 30, 1998;

On the issues of accountability and institutional autonomy, the President designate reminded the Board that universities were now increasingly required to respond to legislated "drivers" such as the proposed public sector accountability act, and to measure themselves against best practices. She indicated her intention to focus considerable attention on increasing the transparency of the University's operations within the Peterborough community and maximizing Trent's connection with the social, cultural, economic and environmental advancement of the region. Beyond that, the University would need to work hard at its communications agenda and make its messages meaningful for members of the public.[2]

In harmony with University policies and public commitments to the Board by the President we request the following information relating to the project known as the DNA Cluster, over the past three years. This includes, but is not limited to;

1. Any and all internal and external correspondence, electronic, paper, or otherwise relating to the project inclusive of correspondence and minutes of meetings between or with agents of Trent University, its Board of Governors, government agencies of any level and public and private partners and potential partners;
2. The detailed record of Board approvals relating to the project in whole or in part including the detailed minutes of the Board where the DNA cluster was mentioned;
3. The full business plan for the project;
4. Any and all internal and external correspondence relating to the use, lease or conveyance of University lands, and specifically those relating to the project;
5. The detailed record of any and all costs incurred to date relating to the project in whole or in part;
6. The University’s policies and plans regarding the nature areas and any and all correspondence relating to these including minutes of meetings and any record of definition changes and/or alterations relating to the distinction of University lands between nature areas and endowment lands.

The disclosure of this information will enable interested parties to independently evaluate the project, and its alleged benefits to Trent and the broader community, based upon the merits of the project itself.

As per published policies please deliver said material to the care of the Trent Central Student Association President at the TCSA Office, Champlain College, Trent University within 30 days.

Yours sincerely,

Derrick Mcintosh
Niiti Simmonds
Shantel Ivitts
Dave Tough

This request is also available in pdf format.