To the Editor:
Despite being very outspoken on the question of crime, Prime Minister Stephen Harper seems far from eager to discuss the "Lawful Access" legislation, bill C-30, that will allow invasive online spying without a warrant.
The proposed legislation will force every phone and Internet provider to allow "authorities" to collect the private information of any Canadian, at any time, without a warrant. This will create legislation that is:
Warrantless: A range of "authorities" will have the ability to invade the private lives of law-abiding Canadians and our families using wired Internet and mobile devices, without justification.
Invasive: The laws leave our personal and financial information less secure and more susceptible to cybercrime.
Costly: Internet services providers may be forced to install millions of dollars worth of spying technology and the cost will be passed down to you.
Canada's Privacy Commissioner, Jennifer Stoddart, has voiced her concerns about online spying repeatedly, and has called for strengthened oversight and privacy safeguards in the bills.
Any proposals to expand telecommunications surveillance must be based on a clear need for new powers, which must be demonstrated by verifiable evidence. And these new powers must include comprehensive internal controls, clear oversight, meaningful deterrents, and a system of enforcement.
Visit www.stopspying.ca to learn more and sign the petition.
James Ferrier, Yorkton, SK.
