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NDP wants to scrap proposed new spy powers, boost intelligence oversight

The New Democrats want to scrap proposed new powers for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, bolster review of intelligence activities and enhance anti-radicalization programs.

OTTAWA — The New Democrats want to scrap proposed new powers for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, bolster review of intelligence activities and enhance anti-radicalization programs.

NDP public safety critic Randall Garrison says the party continues to believe the government’s anti-terrorism bill is dangerous and ineffective after hearing from four dozen witnesses at the House of Commons public safety committee.

The committee plans to begin examining the bill clause-by-clause next week, and the NDP laid out about 40 amendments at a news conference today.

Under the bill, CSIS could take clandestine measures that violate the Charter of Rights and Freedoms as long as a judge sanctions the actions.

The legislation would also it easier for police to limit the movements of a suspect, expand no-fly list powers, take aim at extremist propaganda on the Internet and dismantle barriers to sharing security-related information.

The Conservatives brought in the 62-page security bill following the murders of two Canadian soldiers just days apart last October.