ARCHIVED - Statement by Canada’s Public Safety Minister, Vic Toews
Archived Content
Information identified as archived is provided for reference, research or record-keeping purposes. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please contact us to request a format other than those available.
Good afternoon and thank you for coming.
The first responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
Our government takes this responsibility very seriously and we have strengthened the legislative and operational framework of our security agencies to carry out that mandate.
As the RCMP have just announced, they have arrested two individuals as the result of an ongoing investigation into terrorism-related activities.
Today's arrests demonstrate that terrorism continues to be a real threat to Canada.
The success of Operation SMOOTH is due to the fact that Canada works very closely with international partners to combat terrorism.
I would like to commend the RCMP, CSIS, local law enforcement and all the agencies involved for their collaboration with security and law enforcement partners, and the thoroughness of the investigation that has led to these charges.
I would also like to thank the FBI for their assistance throughout this investigation and their cooperation in bringing it to a successful conclusion.
Operation SMOOTH is an example of Canada's long-standing and productive intelligence sharing relationship with domestic and international partners.
This is a key component of Canada's Counter-Terrorism Strategy and fundamental to protecting Canadians from terrorist threats.
Our Government remains unwavering in its commitment to protect Canadians and support the global fight against terrorism.
Preventing, countering, and prosecuting terrorism is a priority for our Government.
Canada will not tolerate terrorist activity and we will not be used as a safe haven for terrorists or those who support terrorist activity.
When terrorism offences occur it is important that they be prosecuted to the full extent of Canadian law.
Our Government will continue to be vigilant and take the steps necessary to protect Canadians and their families, and our allies who share our common values.
Canadians can be assured that our government will stand firm in our commitment to protecting this country from terrorists and the fear they hope to generate.
As this has been an ongoing operational matter that will now go before the courts, I will conclude my statement and will not be taking questions.
Thank you
Information:
Julie Carmichael
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Public Safety
613-991-2924
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
- Date modified: