check this post for details.May2010applicant said:Apologies, but I guess some senior needs to respond to this question as I myself have not gone through the CAIPS request process yet.
As far as I know you need to complete release of information because a Canadian citizen or resident only can request this information. Plus all the information is maintained centrally in Canada so no need to request it from Visa office.
Seniors please confirm.
Alternatively you can always use the services of a professional agency, but they will charge you way more than the standard fee of CAD$ 5.
http://www.caips.ca/?gclid=CJLA6JjD_68CFc4LtAodcEC4GA
http://www.canadavisa.com/canada-immigration-discussion-board/latest-caips-gcms-notes-forms-and-how-to-order-t99210.0.html