Bill C-22: New Powers, Old Problems

Powerful investigative tools for serious crimes cannot come at the expense of the privacy and freedoms of all Canadians. CIPPIC is deeply concerned by Bill C-22 's expansive mandate, its expedited legislative process, and seriousness of privacy and technical issues raised by the industry, experts and civil society. Bill C-22 proceeds as if state access to subscriber information and metadata raises only modest constitutional and privacy concerns, allowing access in the absence of demonstrated necessity, with inadequate safeguards. Sweeping access to Canadians’ digital lives risks turning the digital services we use every day into surveillance tools that have no place in a free society.

CIPPIC calls for a major structural revision of Bill C-22. It needs high thresholds for data access and secrecy, transparent definitions of technical terms, independent oversight and review mechanisms, and strengthened reporting requirements for true accountability. Every instance of lawful access must be justified and bounded by civil rights, even in the most urgent situations.

Alignment on the technical and legal implications of this Bill is vital between Parliament, industry, and everyday Canadians. CIPPIC strongly recommends an extension of hearings and consultation at the Public Safety and National Security Committee.

Read CIPPIC's section-by-section breakdown of Bill C-22 and our full list of recommendations in our report, "Bill C-22: New Powers, Old Problems".