The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has been criticized by the country’s spy watchdog for its handling of a protocol designed to prevent complicity in torture.
In a report released on Tuesday, the Security Intelligence Review Committee (SIRC) stated that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has not been properly applying the protocol, which was put in place in 2011.
The protocol requires CSIS to inform the RCMP if there is a risk that information obtained through foreign agencies may have been obtained through torture. The RCMP is then responsible for determining whether the information can be used in court.
However, SIRC found that the RCMP has not been consistently following this protocol, leading to potential violations of Canada’s international obligations against torture.
SIRC Chairperson Pierre Blais stated that the committee was “deeply concerned” by the findings and that the RCMP’s failure to properly apply the protocol “undermines the integrity of the Canadian justice system.”
The report also highlighted a lack of communication and coordination between CSIS and the RCMP, with SIRC noting that the two agencies have different interpretations of the protocol.
In response to the report, Public Safety Minister Bill Blair stated that the government takes the issue of torture very seriously and will work to address the concerns raised by SIRC.
The RCMP has also acknowledged the need for improvement and has committed to implementing SIRC’s recommendations.
This report comes at a time when Canada is facing increased scrutiny over its handling of information obtained through foreign agencies, particularly in cases involving national security.
SIRC’s findings serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding human rights and the need for proper oversight in the intelligence community. It is crucial that protocols and procedures are followed to prevent any potential complicity in torture and to maintain the integrity of Canada’s justice system.
