Public Safety and National Security

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss port clearance practices and the H2O highway corridor, hearing from witnesses about challenges and opportunities in Canada's marine transportation system. Neil Dubord, a retired police chief, warned that Canada's ports are vulnerable to transnational organized crime, with only a small percentage of containers being inspected and security clearances lacking for many port workers. He proposed an integrated task force, private sector partnerships, mandatory security clearances, and a small fee on shipping containers to fund security measures. Jean-Paul Rodrigue, a professor, highlighted the stagnation of container port systems on Canada's east coast compared to the U.S., suggesting that pre-clearance systems similar to those used for air travel could improve cross-border container movement, but noted challenges due to port depth and geopolitical factors. Serge Auclair from the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation emphasized the seaway's underutilized capacity and the need for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to support economic development by enabling container import and export at more ports in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence region. He argued that this would ease congestion on highways and rail networks. Committee members questioned the witnesses about security clearances, random searches, and the potential for smaller ports to contribute to the overall efficiency of the system. In the second hour, David Rivest of Desgagnés Transarctik Inc. focused on the need for clarity from CBSA regarding container clearance at medium-sized ports like Valleyfield, which already has security and customs foundations in place. Robert Bellisle of QSL International emphasized the strategic importance of marine transportation to the Canadian economy and the need for CBSA to accelerate marine infrastructure projects by expanding border services at more ports, including the Port of Québec. Saul Polo from St. Lawrence Shipoperators called for CBSA to adopt a more flexible approach, including mobile customs clearance units and allowing transshipment of uncleared containers, to enhance the use of the short-sea shipping network and reduce congestion at major ports. Committee members explored the potential of inland ports, investments needed for small and medium-sized ports, and the challenges of working with CBSA to implement more flexible and responsive clearance practices. Witnesses highlighted the economic benefits of expanding CBSA services to more ports, including increased trade, reduced transportation costs, and support for regional economic development. The discussion also touched on the need for government leadership to provide CBSA with a clear directive and strategic vision to support these goals. Ultimately, the committee is considering how to optimize Canada's marine transportation system by addressing security concerns, improving efficiency, and enabling greater flexibility in container clearance practices, with a focus on the role of CBSA in supporting these objectives.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss the Canada Border Services Agency's (CBSA) role in trade, especially along the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence corridor. The first part of the meeting focused on how Transport Canada works with the CBSA to support trade and ensure the transportation system is safe and efficient. Sonya Read from Transport Canada explained how her department provides economic analysis and advice to the CBSA on projects that could improve trade and supply chains. Committee members questioned her about specific ports, like Oshawa and Montreal, and whether Transport Canada could do more to help them. The second part of the meeting shifted to the issue of stolen vehicles and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) cloning. James Hamilton from the Used Car Dealers Association of Ontario, and John Tod from VIN Verification Services Inc., spoke about how criminals are using VINs from legally exported vehicles to disguise stolen cars, making them difficult to detect. They asked the committee to consider ways to improve data sharing between the CBSA and other organizations to help identify these stolen vehicles and protect consumers. They suggested that the CBSA should share data on exported VINs with more organizations to help identify cloned vehicles. Aviseo Consulting economists Mathieu Paquet and Guillaume Chartrand presented their study on the economic benefits of improving container reception services at smaller ports along the St. Lawrence Seaway. They argued that investing in these ports could boost productivity and economic growth. Committee members discussed the potential for smaller ports like Valleyfield to contribute to the overall efficiency of the supply chain. The committee discussed the possibility of a pilot project to test innovative solutions for clearing containers at smaller ports. Several recommendations were put forward, including mandating standardized training for CBSA officers, fully implementing advance export filing, expanding VIN data sharing, establishing transparent service-level agreements for inspection facilities, and piloting a private sector augmentation model for VIN examinations. The committee acknowledged the need for a more proactive and intelligence-led approach to combatting auto theft and improving port security.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss the Canada Border Services Agency's (CBSA) role in the H2O highway corridor and port clearance practices. The committee heard from representatives from the CBSA, as well as from the Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority and the Société du Port de Valleyfield. Cathy Toxopeus and Daniel Anson from the CBSA spoke about the agency's role in facilitating trade while also protecting the safety and security of Canadians. They highlighted the use of technology like radiation screening portals and large-scale imaging at major ports to detect contraband. They also mentioned the CBSA is aware of calls for increased presence at smaller ports and is always looking for ways to better support trade, but decisions about port infrastructure are outside their control. Ian Hamilton from the Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority emphasized the importance of ports to Canada's economy and the potential for expanding container traffic on the Great Lakes. He noted that no Great Lakes port in Ontario or Canada has full container clearance capacity, which limits their role in international trade. Isabelle Viau from the Société du Port de Valleyfield discussed the negative impact of the CBSA ending customs clearance services at the Port of Valleyfield, leading to increased costs and inefficiencies for businesses in the region. Committee members questioned the witnesses on a range of issues, including the effectiveness of current screening methods, the impact of CBSA policies on port operations, and the potential for improving coordination between different agencies. Some committee members raised concerns about the CBSA's workplace culture and human rights policies, but these questions were challenged as being off-topic. The committee discussed the possibility of public-private partnerships to improve port services. The committee did not make any specific decisions during the meeting, but the discussion highlighted the need for improved coordination and investment in port infrastructure to support Canada's trade goals.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss budget plans and various issues related to public safety. The meeting covered topics like hiring more RCMP officers and border agents, dealing with foreign interference, and managing offenders. The Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, along with RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme, CBSA President Erin O'Gorman, and CSC Commissioner Talal Dakalbab, answered questions from committee members. During the meeting, Frank Caputo (Conservative) questioned the Minister about a memorandum of understanding with China and the number of Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members in Canada. The Minister faced criticism for not providing direct answers. Sima Acan (Liberal) focused on the recruitment of new RCMP and CBSA personnel and how funding would support these initiatives. Claude DeBellefeuille (Bloc Québécois) raised concerns about budget cuts to the RCMP and their impact on border security. Dane Lloyd (Conservative) questioned the effectiveness of the government's gun confiscation program and its cost. Committee members also discussed specific cases, such as the temporary release of a convicted murderer, and broader issues like the well-being of correctional officers. The CBSA president discussed efforts to increase weekly removals of individuals with outstanding immigration warrants. The committee agreed to merge two studies related to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) into one study, with the first meeting scheduled for March 26, 2026. The meeting ended with discussions on foreign interference and the challenges faced by the Correctional Service of Canada.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss how Canada handles removing foreign nationals who have committed crimes. The committee heard from Steve Watson, a manager from New Zealand's immigration department, who shared how New Zealand deals with deportations. He explained that New Zealand prioritizes removing foreign criminals and those who pose a high risk to the community. They work closely with other agencies like the police and corrections to share information and deport people quickly, sometimes right after they leave prison. Watson said New Zealand focuses on managing cases well, especially for lower-priority deportations. They encourage people to leave on their own and may offer the chance to return to New Zealand in the future if they cooperate. He also mentioned that New Zealand shares information with other countries, especially those in the "Five Eyes" intelligence alliance, to screen people and prevent potential security threats from entering the country. Committee members asked Watson about various topics, including how New Zealand handles uncooperative countries, screens for security threats, and protects vulnerable migrants from exploitation. They also discussed data sharing between agencies and the balance between public safety and human rights. Watson offered to answer further questions by email, showing New Zealand's willingness to help Canada improve its deportation processes.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss how Canada handles foreign nationals with criminal records. The committee wanted to find ways to stop criminals from entering Canada and to improve the process of deporting those who are already here. Peter German, from the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform, spoke about the need for more resources for the RCMP and better border security. He suggested that Canada is an attractive place for criminals because of its openness and strong legal rights. He also talked about the importance of prioritizing the removal of high-risk individuals and working together between police and border services. Committee members discussed issues like the use of students at the border, bail reform, and the challenges of dealing with transnational crime. They also talked about proposed laws that could help with these issues. The committee agreed to study the policies around conditional releases for offenders and also to study how to improve emergency preparedness in Canada.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss and revise a proposed law about cybersecurity (Bill C-8). The committee reviewed the proposed law section by section, considering and voting on several suggested changes (amendments). Witnesses from Public Safety, Industry, and the Communications Security Establishment were present to answer questions about the proposed law. Committee members debated changes to sections about ministerial responsibilities, review periods for the law, and how personal information is handled. Dane Lloyd (Conservative) proposed several amendments to clarify definitions and reporting requirements, while Jacques Ramsay (Liberal) introduced amendments to ensure consistency with privacy laws and address industry concerns. Some amendments were adopted, such as those clarifying the definition of internal audits and protecting solicitor-client privilege. Some proposed changes were rejected, including one that would have required informing the Privacy Commissioner of privacy breaches. The committee also discussed the need for consultation with industry stakeholders and provinces when developing regulations. Ultimately, the committee completed its review of the proposed law and agreed to report it, with amendments, to the House of Commons. Near the end of the meeting, Sukhman Gill (Conservative) introduced a motion expressing concern about rising extortion rates and calling for tougher measures to combat organized crime. However, the committee adjourned before a vote could be held on this motion. The committee will meet again to discuss the motion on extortion and other matters.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss a proposed law about cyber security and changes to the Telecommunications Act. The committee members were working through the proposed law section by section, considering different ideas to improve it. They discussed things like protecting whistle-blowers, making sure personal information is safe, and checking if the proposed law is working well after a few years. Claude DeBellefeuille (Bloc Québécois) suggested an amendment to protect whistle-blowers who report sensitive information. Andre Arbour from the Department of Industry explained some issues with the wording and suggested changes. DeBellefeuille also raised concerns about Internet service providers outsourcing work to other countries, like India and Egypt, and how that could affect the safety of Canadians' personal information. Arbour responded that the proposed law already has measures to deal with these kinds of risks. Frank Caputo (Conservative) proposed several amendments, but some were withdrawn after discussion because they were already covered by existing laws. Jacques Ramsay (Liberal) commented on several proposed amendments, often suggesting they were unnecessary or confusing. The committee voted on several amendments, agreeing to some and rejecting others. Ultimately, the committee decided to delay discussion on one section (clause 11) to allow experts to clarify some complicated points. They plan to continue working through the proposed law at their next meeting. The Minister of Public Safety is scheduled to appear at a future meeting to discuss the proposed law and other committee business.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss parts of a proposed law that would change how disability benefits are handled for RCMP members. Brian Sauvé, the president of the National Police Federation, spoke to the committee about the union's concerns. He said that while they support some parts of the proposed law, they worry about changes to how information is shared between Veterans Affairs and the RCMP, and how disability pensions are calculated. Sauvé explained that the union is concerned about a part of the proposed law that would allow the Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Minister of Public Safety, and the RCMP commissioner to share information with each other. He fears that this could lead to RCMP members' private medical information being shared too widely, potentially affecting their careers. He also raised concerns about a change in how disability pensions are adjusted for inflation, which could reduce benefits for injured RCMP members. Committee members asked Sauvé about the impact of these changes on RCMP morale and recruitment. Sauvé said the changes could make it harder to recruit and retain officers. He suggested that the government should consider a grandfather clause to protect current disability pension recipients. Members also discussed the recent tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., and how the committee could support the first responders and RCMP members who responded to the incident. Several committee members raised concerns about the privacy of RCMP members' medical information and the potential for the RCMP to use this information to make decisions about their fitness for duty. Sauvé reiterated the union's call for stronger privacy safeguards in the proposed law. The committee did not make any decisions during the meeting, but members discussed potential amendments to the proposed law and next steps for sharing their recommendations with the finance committee. The committee agreed to meet again on February 24 to continue reviewing the proposed law.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss a proposed law about cyber security, which includes changes to the Telecommunications Act. Committee members went through the proposed law section by section, considering different ideas to change it. Frank Caputo (Conservative) proposed several changes, but some were rejected or withdrawn after discussion. One change he suggested, CPC-20, was approved. Jenny Kwan (NDP) also put forward amendments, including one about protecting personal data, but most were voted down. Elizabeth May (Green Party) proposed an amendment, PV-9, to limit how the Communications Security Establishment uses personal data, but it was also rejected. Andre Arbour from the Department of Industry gave expert advice on the potential effects of the proposed changes. He talked about how some changes could make it harder for the government to protect the telecommunications system. Claude DeBellefeuille (Bloc Québécois) successfully proposed an amendment, BQ-7, to better protect privacy. The committee agreed to continue discussing the proposed law on February 24th after a break.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss a proposed law about cyber security. This law would make changes to the Telecommunications Act. The committee members were looking at the proposed law section by section and suggesting changes, called amendments. Key people involved included Claude DeBellefeuille from the Bloc Québécois, who suggested changes to make sure the law is reasonable and fair. Frank Caputo from the Conservative Party supported limiting the government's power under the proposed law. Jacques Ramsay from the Liberal Party agreed with some changes to make the law clearer. Andre Arbour, from the Department of Industry, helped explain the technical parts of the proposed law and the possible effects of the changes. The committee members voted on several proposed changes. One change, BQ-1, was approved to add more clarity to the criteria used for gathering information. Another change, CPC-5, was approved that requires judicial authorization for a non-disclosure order. Several other proposed changes were rejected or withdrawn. The committee also discussed concerns about privacy and the security of Canadians' communications. They debated whether the proposed law could be used to weaken encryption, which protects online information. The committee agreed to another change, G-2, to prevent the government from ordering the decoding of encrypted communications. The committee ran out of time and will continue discussing the proposed law at a later meeting.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss a proposed law about cyber security, called Bill C-8. The goal of the proposed law is to protect Canada's telecommunications systems from cyber threats. Committee members debated several proposed changes to the law. Frank Caputo, a Conservative MP, suggested changes to clarify the law's language, ensuring it doesn't accidentally limit freedom of speech or give the government too much power. One change he suggested was to require a judge's approval before the government could take action against a cyber threat. However, other committee members, like Sima Acan (Liberal), worried that this would slow down the government's response to fast-moving cyber attacks. Government officials, like Andre Arbour, also expressed concerns that the courts don't have the technical expertise to make quick decisions about cyber security. Ultimately, the committee voted on the proposed changes. One change, proposed by Mr. Caputo, was approved, while another was rejected. The approved change clarified that the proposed law should not interfere with lawful expression. The rejected change would have required the government to obtain legal authorization before issuing orders related to cyber security threats. The committee agreed to continue discussing the proposed law at future meetings.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss a proposed law about cyber security, which includes changes to the Telecommunications Act. Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly explained that the proposed law aims to protect Canada's telecommunications networks from cyber threats, which cost Canadian businesses billions of dollars each year. She emphasized that the proposed law would give the government the tools to act quickly when there are serious risks to these networks, while also including safeguards to protect freedom of speech and privacy. Committee members raised concerns about the proposed law's potential impact on privacy and the balance between security and civil liberties. Some members questioned whether the proposed law gives too much power to the government and suggested the need for judicial oversight. Minister Joly responded that the government is open to considering amendments to address these concerns, but stressed the importance of passing the proposed law quickly to protect Canada's critical infrastructure. Specifically, Conservative MP Frank Caputo asked why judicial authorization wasn't required before the government could take action under the proposed law. Bloc Québécois MP Claude DeBellefeuille raised concerns about the proposed law weakening encryption standards and the lack of consideration for the Privacy Commissioner's recommendations. Liberal MP Sima Acan focused on how the proposed law would align Canada with its allies in protecting against cyber threats. Ultimately, the committee agreed to undertake a study of clauses related to the National Police Federation and forward any recommendations to the Standing Committee on Finance by February 26, 2026. The committee also scheduled future meetings to conduct a detailed review of the proposed law, section by section, and to hear from additional witnesses.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss proposed changes to how Canada handles foreign nationals with criminal records. The first part of the meeting focused on committee procedure, regarding how they would study proposed law C-8. Committee members debated the order in which they would hear from witnesses and consider amendments to the proposed law. They eventually agreed to a process that would allow for a thorough review, including hearing from the Minister of Industry. The second part of the meeting featured testimony from Brian Sauvé, President of the National Police Federation. He spoke about the RCMP's role in identifying and removing foreign nationals involved in criminal activity. He emphasized the need for dedicated resources, better information sharing between agencies like the CBSA and RCMP, and expanded joint task forces. Sauvé argued that current systems are working but need modernization to better protect Canadians. Sauvé highlighted three key areas for improvement. First, he called for dedicated funding for immigration-related enforcement within the RCMP. Second, he stressed the importance of real-time data sharing between agencies, including updating privacy laws to support this. Third, he advocated for expanding joint task forces to improve coordination in removing high-risk individuals. He also noted challenges with the current CPIC system, which is used to share information among police forces. Committee members questioned Sauvé on various aspects of the issue. They discussed the collaboration between the RCMP and CBSA, the challenges of identifying and detaining foreign nationals with criminal records, and the potential impact of proposed law C-12 on information sharing. Sauvé acknowledged that there are gaps in the system and that improvements are needed to ensure public safety. He also expressed support for providing RCMP officers with adequate training facilities. Ultimately, the committee agreed to continue its study of Canada's ability to remove foreign nationals with criminal records. The next steps will likely involve hearing from additional witnesses and considering specific legislative changes to address the challenges identified during the meeting.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security met to discuss a proposed law about cybersecurity, C-8. The committee heard from several witnesses about the proposed law's potential impacts on privacy, security, and industry. Some witnesses expressed concerns that the proposed law could weaken encryption standards and allow for unwarranted collection of personal information. They suggested changes to protect privacy and ensure independent oversight. Other witnesses supported the proposed law, saying it is a necessary step to protect Canada's critical infrastructure from cyberattacks and aligns Canada with its allies. They emphasized the need for clear definitions of reportable incidents and strong public-private partnerships.