Canada's Anti-Terrorism Bill Quietly Passes







There has been a significant amount of criticism recently, regarding the Harper government’s (not so) new, but very controversial anti-terrorism Bill S-7, and the attacks this bill may have on the civil liberties of Canadians.

Despite the Bill receiving more recent attention, it is important to remember that the measures being introduced are simply ones that are being reinstated, as they were originally introduced in response to the September 11th terrorist attacks in the United States.  But what is bill S-7?  According to a report by the cbc, this bill essentially gives Canadian law enforcement agencies more sweeping powers when it comes to preventative detainment, as well as forceable hearings without any charges being laid. (CBC.ca)

What does this mean?

Those concerned about their civil liberties have a reason to worry because under these newly reinstated provisions, authorities would not need to charge someone with an offense in order to detain them. Upon their release from questioning, the suspect would be placed under observation, and have their traveling activities curtailed if they are suspected of terrorism. Furthermore, anyone committing crimes outside of the country will now have to answer to those crimes in Canada, and charges can be pressed. Examples include highjacking an airplane for example outside of Canada, for example.

According to Public Safety Minister Vic Toews, this bill is needed  because “ the nature of the challenge [of terrorism] is changing”

Why now?

The bill was brought up in the House of Commons right after the Boston Bombings, and the discovery of a planned attack on a VIA rail passenger train in Toronto. It was also passed very quickly with little debate, and without the support of the official opposition party, the NDP.  It is certainly interesting timing on the part of the federal government.  

In a world that seems to be getting increasingly paranoid, it becomes more important than ever to remember the basic rights we as citizens have, and are guaranteed to us in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.


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