“As part of the International Open Data Conference (IODC) on May 28-29, 2015, a group of experts, officials, and advocates in the open data field committed to join forces in a multi-stakeholder international partnership for open data. This group will support the development, launch, and implementation of a new International Open Data Charter, articulating global open data principles and best practices. We believe that a first step in achieving the benefits of open data is taking deliberate action, starting with public commitments to the core principles of transparency, accountability, and openness. We’re proud that Canada is a member of that partnership, and we’d like to invite you, on behalf of the members, to review and provide feedback into the International Open Data Charter until July 31, 2015. You can read more on the charter website or on our blog: Help Create the International Open Data Charter.” [Darlene Fichter]