Looking Ahead

Safeguarding the privacy of Canadians

Last year, I concluded my report by observing that CSE must constantly progress to keep pace with technological advances. Only by doing this can CSE improve its ability to screen out Canadian communications and safeguard the privacy of Canadians.

Despite the enormity of events since my last report and the pressures now on Canada's security and intelligence community to provide information and produce results, to my mind the issue of privacy remains paramount.

CSE's additional powers under Ministerial authorization are new and important tools in the fight against terrorism. At the same time, however, they must be used judiciously and in a manner consistent with the letter and the spirit of the law. This will require conscientious effort on the part of all parties as we establish and implement appropriate procedures to discharge our legislated duties.

I am also well aware of the challenges these new powers present for the review of CSE's activities. I intend to fulfil my responsibilities in the year ahead vigilantly, with this fact firmly in mind.