Canadian Minister of Justice Calls for Review of Anti-Terror Law; Chief Justice Criticises Act

On 17 August, the Canadian Minister of Justice, Irwin Cotler called for a comprehensive review of antiterrorism legislation to determine the impact that this and related measures have had on civil liberties. Passed in December 2001, the Canadian Anti-Terrorism Act contains extensive new powers for police to investigate acts believed to be related to terrorism and has seriously affected individual human rights and freedoms. Further, the Chief Justice of the Federal Court, which deals with cases involving anti-terrorism laws, has said that security obligations imposed by the Act created “absurd” situations in the Court by forcing it to keep too much information secret.