The Canadian Liberal government has decided to divide its border security legislation into two separate bills, aiming to expedite the passage of certain measures while allowing for more thorough evaluation of others. The newly introduced Bill C-12 incorporates various provisions from a previous bill in June, focusing on expanding the Coast Guard’s responsibilities, strengthening immigration and refugee systems, improving information sharing on sex offenders, and regulating chemicals used in illicit drug production.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree affirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the initial bill, C-2, which seeks to grant authorities additional powers to inspect mail and access personal data. By splitting the border security proposals into two distinct legislative tracks, with Bill C-12 expected to move forward first, the government aims to streamline the legislative process.
The decision to split the bills, reported by CBC News, has drawn criticism from civil society groups concerned about potential infringements on liberties and human rights posed by the proposed border measures. Tim McSorley, the national co-ordinator of the International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group, expressed dismay over the government’s approach, advocating for the withdrawal of both bills to address the contentious issues.
Similarly, Karen Cocq from the Migrant Rights Network emphasized the need to uphold due process protections for vulnerable individuals, urging the withdrawal of the new bill, which she argues mirrors the flaws of its predecessor. Anandasangaree defended the decision not to amend Bill C-2 directly during the legislative process, citing challenging guidelines for bill revisions.
The original legislation aimed to enhance border security, combat organized crime, curb the influx of fentanyl, and tackle money laundering, responding to concerns raised by the U.S. administration. While receiving support from law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups, the bill faced opposition from over 300 civil society organizations, citing concerns about privacy, migrant rights, and freedoms.
The International Civil Liberties Monitoring Group raised alarms about proposed changes that could impact asylum claims, grant expanded powers to Canada Post, and facilitate access to subscriber information and warrantless police actions in urgent situations. The government’s attempts to navigate the legislative landscape and address security challenges have encountered resistance and calls for more comprehensive revisions.
