Key takeaways of the foreign interference inquiry.

By Noé Chartier | The Epoch Times

Summary

The recent phase of public hearings at the Foreign Interference Commission has concluded. Highlights from the hearings include unresolved issues regarding foreign interference definitions and a delayed surveillance warrant.

Tensions within the federal government were on display as diplomats and officials challenged assessments by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) over what might be considered a threat to national security.

The counsel for Conservative MP Michael Chong, Gib van Ert questioned why senior officials were unaware of Beijing’s attempts to gather information on MP Chong and his family, despite CSIS sending relevant reports. He criticized the government’s view that such intelligence activities are normal diplomatic practices, arguing that the lack of clarity on foreign interference is detrimental.

During Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s testimony to the commission, he acknowledged disagreements on a wide range of national security matters.

The prime minister also faced questions regarding a controversial CSIS surveillance warrant delayed for 54 days in spring 2021. The warrant, initially approved by Deputy Minister Rob Stewart, was not presented to then-Public Safety Minister Bill Blair for 50 days by his chief of staff, Zita Astravas. Testimonies revealed the unusual delay frustrated CSIS operational staff. The warrant’s subject, identified through leaks as current Markham deputy mayor and former Ontario Liberal cabinet minister Michael Chan, has denied any wrongdoing, and claims CSIS has harassed his associates. National security concerns have limited public disclosure about the warrant.

A report from the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) suggested some lawmakers may have participated in foreign interference, a claim disputed by top officials.

The commission is set to submit its final report by year-end.

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