Parliamentary Committee Notes: Minister Anandasangaree's Appearance Before the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security (SECU)
Main Estimates 2026-2027

Public Safety Canada Priorities

We're moving swiftly on the key legislation that keeps Canadians safe.

• Bill C-8 will improve our resilience to cyber threats in four sectors: finance, telecommunications, energy and transportation.
• Bill C-22 will tackle organized crime, terrorism and foreign interference by providing law enforcement with tools to lawfully access basic information and data.

The Government is investing in the North, including growing its presence in Northern communities.

• As Canada increases Arctic investment, the national security community is advancing in step, scaling up recruitment across the North and Arctic regions.
• The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) are building on their partnerships with Indigenous communities to bolster their security, resilience, and prosperity.

Getting guns off our streets keeps them out of the wrong hands.

• The $248.6M Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program is set to remove roughly 152,000 prohibited firearms from circulation.
• As of May 10, more than 126,000 prohibited firearms have been declared or claimed.

Public Safety is advancing toward its targeted savings of up to 15% over three years.

• Public Safety is reducing its workforce by 375 positions.
• To achieve this, 649 employees received letters indicating that their positions are affected.
  • Reductions have already been achieved through voluntary departures, including those incentivized into early retirement.
• Critical services and supports to communities will be maintained.

With partners, we are ensuring FIFA World Cup games hosted in Canada are safe for all participants.

• In April, the Government of Canada committed up to $145 million to support enhanced security operations related to hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Toronto and Vancouver.
• This investment builds on up to $220M already committed to Canadian host cities and up to $100M in Budget 2025 for federal partners.
• Overall coordination, planning, and provision of security rests with the FIFA governing bodies and the Local Police of Jurisdiction.

Canada is taking action to address cybersecurity fears surrounding Chinese EVs.

• All vehicles on Canadian roads must meet Canada's strict regulatory standards.
• Strong safeguards are already in place, and we're rolling out additional measures to further mitigate these risks.

We have strengthened Canada's ability to detect, disrupt, and prevent extortion across Canada.

• Multiple bills are before Parliament that provide additional tools in addressing these issues.
• Budget 2025 announced $1.7 billion to strengthen RCMP investigative capacity.
• We are uniting all levels of government and community leaders to safeguard local businesses and protect residents.

We're moving fast to implement the Foreign Influence Transparency and Accountability Act.

• There are three key pieces needed for the Act to come into force:
  • Appointment of a Foreign Influence Transparency Commissioner (Anton Boegman nominated);
  • Regulations; and
  • Secure IT solution to support the Registry.

General Overview

Budget 2025 Highlights

• The RCMP received approximately $2.1 Billion
• $1.8B over 4 years to hire 1000 RCMP personnel and enhance the Cadet Recruitment Allowance
• $183.9M over 6 years: Air Fleet Modernization (to support Contract Policing Phase 1 of the RCMP's 15-year Air Fleet Renewal and Modernization Strategy)

Fast Facts^{Footnote 1}

• 19,067 RCMP Officers
• 11,333 Public Service Employees
• 2,384 Civilian Members
• Over 700 detachments across Canada
• 12,000 Active On-Road Vehicles, 1,700 Off-Road Vehicles, 334 Marine Vessels, 30 Aircrafts

Federal Policing

• Federal Policing enforces federal laws, secures the borders, conducts international policing activities, ensures the safety of major events, state officials, dignitaries and foreign missions
• Prevents, detects and investigates serious and organized crime, financial crime, cybercrime, and criminal activity related to national security

National Specialized Services

• Provides critical frontline operational support services to RCMP, Canadian law enforcement partners, and select foreign organizations
• Includes the Canadian Firearms Program, the Canadian Police College, the Criminal Intelligence Service Canada, Forensic Science and Identification Services, Specialized Operations and Intelligence and Technical Operations

Indigenous, Provincial, Territorial and Municipal Policing

• General administration of justice, preservation of the peace, community policing and the prevention of crime
• Provides policing services to eight provinces (excluding Quebec and Ontario), three territories
• Police service for approximately 550 Indigenous communities

Recruitment

Hiring 1000 Additional Personnel

• The RCMP is adding 1,000 personnel, including 350 Regular Members in year one, to boost capacity against organized crime, cybercrime, financial crime, and national security threats
• Recruitment will focus on specialized skills and experienced officers, with phased onboarding aligned to training and security clearance capacity
• Recruitment is a top priority for the RCMP and work is underway to address recommendations of the Auditor General and Management Advisory Board
• National Recruitment Strategy (2026–2030) published in March to modernize and expand hiring
• First Nations, Inuit and Métis Recruitment Strategy and Action Plan developed to strengthen culturally appropriate recruitment for all categories of employees
• Increasing diverse representation among cadets, including Indigenous Peoples, bilingual candidates, and other under-represented groups, is central to the RCMP's mission
• To reduce the time it takes for applicants to get to Depot, security screening has been moved up and each candidate is personally supported in the process to enhance their experience and address issues early
• Work to reduce the application process continues:
  • 43% of applicants loaded to Depot were processed in less than a year
  • Target: reduce processing time to 6 months by 2028–29
• Cadet Recruitment Allowance increased from $525/week to $1,000/week (starting April 1, 2026) that will be more competitive with other police agencies and help to retain cadets throughout their training
• Planning to increase the number of cadets being trained each year
• Project Red Serge - streamlining recruitment in BC/Yukon to allow all applications from BC /Yukon to be processed right from the division

Operational successes

Securing the Border

• Acquired and deployed new Black Hawk helicopters, tactical remotely piloted aircraft systems, drones, counter-drone surveillance systems (both mobile and fixed - vehicles, radar/cameras, detection capabilities), and mobile surveillance systems (trailers, radars, thermal high-performance cameras) to improve border surveillance
• As part of the Border Integrity Operations Centres (BIOCs), upgraded two existing Operations Communications Centres to ensure command and control of border operations across Canada, including monitoring stations servers and additional operator personnel to provide 24/7 coverage

Combating Transnational Organized

Crime and Illicit Financing

• Participating in new Joint Operational Intelligence Cell that brings together key domestic agencies and law enforcement partners to improve information sharing and coordination in targeting transnational organized crime
• Established a North American Joint Strike Force with Integrated Synthetic Enforcement Teams in Canada and increased footprint in the U.S. and Mexico
• Conducted targeted, effective and counter- fentanyl enforcement actions among federal agencies (e.g., the CBSA, police partners). For example, the RCMP collaborated with the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation to advance Operation Giant Slalom, which targeted an international drug trafficking organization allegedly led by Canadian Ryan Wedding. This resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of illegal substances.
• Launched a money laundering intelligence partnership (IMLIP) with the major banks to increase information sharing on money laundering and organized crime

CBSA Priorities

1,000 New CBSA Officers

• Budget 2025 allocated $669 million over five years and $198.3 million ongoing to bolster CBSA operations.
• As of May 8, 2026, over 100 new CBSA officers were hired, of the 1,000. This includes 76 Border Services Officers (including the first 3 fentanyl detector dog teams), 21 Trade Officers, 3 Recourse Officers, 4 Chemists and 2 Detection Technology Engineers.
• 200 will be in training at the college in Rigaud by July 2026.
• Over 400 new officers are expected to be in place by the end of this fiscal year. CBSA is on track to reach the 1,000 new officers target by the end of fiscal year 2028-2029.

Removals

• The CBSA removed over 23,000 inadmissible persons in 2025, the highest ever in the history of the Agency, thanks to $55.5 million in additional funding under the Border Plan.
• Removing approx. 440 inadmissible persons each week, including those involved in extortion.
• Over 550 CBSA personnel are focussed on immigration investigations and removals. CBSA also has a tip line – the Border Watch Line – for the public to report violation of immigration law.

Comprehensive Expenditure Review (CER)

• CBSA's budget was reduced by two percent, or approx. $52 million.
• CBSA is reducing its workforce by 348 employees (18 executives and 330 non-executives), only in national headquarters.
• To achieve this, approx. 700 employees reporting to national headquarters received letters indicating that their positions are affected.
• These workforce adjustments will have no impact to CBSA frontline operations.

CBSA Specific Issues

• Since the major outage last fall, the CBSA and Shared Services Canada produced a report and are implementing an action plan.
• During an outage, the CBSA ensures an adequate number of primary inspection lines are open, while maintaining normal operations, and collaborates with trade partners and stakeholders to facilitate the flow of commercial goods.
• Safety and security standards are upheld at all times.

Committee Notes - Recruitment

Q1 - Given existing recruitment challenges, how will the RCMP recruit an additional 1,000 federal policing personnel

• The addition of 1,000 new RCMP personnel is a significant workforce expansion. This investment will focus on tackling financial crimes and increase investigative capacity to address the most serious criminal threats, including organized crime, cybercrime and national security.
• New personnel will be recruited through targeted strategies focused on the specialized skill sets required for federal policing. The approach will also include attracting experienced officers.
• A phased implementation plan is underway that aligns recruitment, training, and security clearance capacity to support timely onboarding of new personnel.
• In the first year, 350 Regular Members will be added nationally who will be focused on countering organized crime and national security threats.

If pressed on how this affects front line in provinces and territories:

• This will not affect the RCMP's ongoing recruitment efforts and its commitment to hire and train more officers to meet the needs of the organization.
• The goal is to get more Regular Members trained and to the front line as quickly as possible. 

Q2 - The RCMP's recruitment rate, vacancies and workforce planning were identified as issues in the Auditor General's report. What are you doing to address the gaps identified

• The RCMP accepts the finding and recommendations of the Auditor General and work is well underway to address the issues identified.
• The RCMP published a National Recruitment Strategy in March 2026, supported by a clear action plan to deliver its commitments.
• In 2026-27, the RCMP plans to train more troops with a target of graduating a total of 1,600 cadets.
• The RCMP has already reduced the time it takes for applicants to move through its system and will continue to do so. By 2028-2029, the RCMP will reduce average applicant processing times to six months.
• The RCMP is closely tracking its progress including applicant processing times, the number of applicants sent for training at Depot, the number of cadets that graduate from Depot, and the deployment of new cadets to RCMP divisions and regions.
• The RCMP is developing a data-driven workforce model to identify requirements by division, function, and specialization, and account for attrition. Such an evidence-based approach will be used to identify actions necessary to address shortages in existing capacity and facilitate planning.

Committee Notes - India

Q3 - What actions has the RCMP taken in response to allegations involving agents of the Government of India with ties to criminal networks in Canada

• The RCMP takes all allegations of intimidation, harassment, or targeting of individuals in Canada seriously.
• Any involvement of a foreign government—directly or through criminal proxies—in targeting individuals or communities in Canada is unacceptable.
• The RCMP continues to work with domestic and international partners to detect, deter and disrupt any form of foreign actor interference in Canada.

Committee Notes - Firearms

Q4 - Minister, why is the government moving forward with the buyback of assault-style firearms

• The Assault Style Firearms Compensation Program addresses a public safety priority set by the Government of Canada and led by Public Safety Canada.
• The RCMP is committed to supporting Public Safety Canada in the operationalization of this initiative.

If pressed:

• This includes contributing to the safe collection of prohibited firearms in participating RCMP contract policing jurisdictions, facilitating collection activities in other jurisdictions when requested and where possible, and supporting post-amnesty compliance.

Committee Notes - Emerging Issues

Q5 - Is the RCMP concerned about foreign interference in the context of secessionism movements in Canada

• National security is a core responsibility of the RCMP and it is actively involved in investigating all allegations of foreign interference.
• The RCMP takes any instance of foreign interference seriously, regardless of its origin—including any attempt to interfere in Canada's democratic processes.
• With respect to protecting Canada's democratic institutions from foreign interference, the RCMP is an essential part of a broader GoC effort to ensure that every tool at our disposal is being used.

Committee Notes – CBSA

Q1 - What is the CBSA doing to remove Iranian regime members

• The CBSA is investigating Iranians who are in Canada and who were senior officials of the regime, and bringing them before the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) to make a case against them.
• As part of designation of the Iranian regime:
  • Over 17, 800 visa applications from Iranians were reviewed by IRCC for potential inadmissibility;
  • 239 visas cancelled by IRCC;
  • 176 investigations launched opened by the CBSA;
  • As a result of these investigations, the CBSA has identified 34 individuals who are believed to be senior officials of the regime and sent these cases to the IRB for hearing and decision;
  • 8 individuals left Canada.
• The Administrative Deferral of Removal for removals to Iran does not apply to persons found inadmissible as senior officials in the Iranian regime.
• Removal can proceed because these officials are inadmissible on the ground of human or international rights violations.
• The CBSA's Border Watch Line is available for organizations and the public to submit tips on suspected regime members.
• Approx. 450 tips were received by the CBSA Since the original designation of the Iranian regime in November 2022.

Q2 - What is the CBSA doing to stop IRGC from coming to Canada

• The CBSA works diligently to prevent all inadmissible persons from travelling to or entering Canada, and pursues appropriate immigration enforcement against inadmissible persons when they are encountered.
• IRCC is responsible for making decisions on visas and immigration applications.
• To support decision making, CBSA provides security screening recommendations to IRCC on a referral basis in relation to cases involving admissibility concerns based on security, international human rights violations or organized criminality grounds.
• Members of the IRGC are prevented from travelling to Canada in the first place.
• CBSA is responsible for making determinations of inadmissibility of persons seeking to enter Canada at ports of entry, and conducts immigration investigations against permanent residents and foreign nationals in Canada who may be inadmissible.
• As the IRGC is an organization which has engaged in terrorism, and is a listed terrorist entity under the Criminal Code, the CBSA pursues allegations of inadmissibility against their members.
• Cases are reviewed and assessed on a case-by-case basis, in accordance to a number of factors when determining whether a person is inadmissible as a member of an organization.

Q3 - How many members of the IRGC has CBSA removed

• On June 19, 2024, the Minister of Public Safety listed the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code.
• Military service in Iran is mandatory (conscription); for some, service in the IRGC was compulsory.
• The CBSA is investigating Iranians who are in Canada and who may have been members of the IRGC.
• Where the CBSA suspects someone was a member of the IRGC, they prepare a case and present it to the IRB, the decision maker.
• Since the listing of the IRGC, the CBSA has identified 37 suspected members of the IRGC:
  • 7 left Canada before facing an admissibility hearing;
  • 23 are being prepared for an IRB hearing;
  • 7 are with the IRB for a hearing.

Q4 - What is the CBSA's role in tackling extortion

• The CBSA works with law enforcement partners through joint task forces across the country such as:
  • the BC Extortion Task Force in BC's Lower Mainland;
  • Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team in Edmonton and Calgary; and,
  • with Peel police in Ontario.
• Police notify the CBSA when they identify an individuals who may be in violation of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA); the CBSA then conducts investigations that can lead to immigration enforcement action, including removal from Canada.
• As of May 7, 2026, 446 immigration investigations were opened by the CBSA, 118 removal orders have been issued for various inadmissibility grounds, and 55 people have been removed.
• These cases come to the Agency's attention through many sources, including collaboration with extortion task forces, tips from partner agencies and the public, and CBSA's own investigative work.

Q5 - As a result of the OAG Audit of Reforms to the International Student Program, what actions will be taken by the CBSA to track the departure of international students when their study permits expire

• IRCC is responsible for ongoing oversight and compliance monitoring of the International Student Program and maintains in contact with designated learning institutions. These institutions are required to report non-compliant students to IRCC twice a year.
• As per the audit's recommendation, IRCC will provide CBSA with a list of individuals with expired student permits, who have not applied for or received an extension, or applied for or transitioned to permanent residence, or otherwise maintained valid immigration status.

Q6 - What does the CBSA assess when a claimant arrives to makes a claim

• The CBSA assesses identity, admissibility and eligibility of the asylum claimant.
• Officers verify identity, review biometrics and criminality checks and conduct an in-person interview.
• Officers must be satisfied the individual is not inadmissible on grounds such as national security, serious or organized criminality and human or international rights violations.
• Officers also determine whether the claim is eligible for referral to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
• The CBSA does not assess the merits of the claimant's fear of persecution.
• The IRB is solely responsible for determining the merits of asylum claims, including credibility.
• This separation of roles is established in legislation.

Q7 - Does the CBSA do any other security checks asylum claimants

• The CBSA is responsible for security screening asylum claimants.
• A comprehensive security screening is conducted for all adult claimants, in partnership with intelligence partners.
• Screening assesses inadmissibility on grounds such as national security, human or international rights violations and serious or organized criminality.

Q8 - Is the Assessment and Revenue Management system (CARM) imposing a burden on industry

• No, but CARM did introduce a number of changes for the business community (including small business) such as the need to create an account with the CBSA and the need to post financial security.
• These changes have largely been adopted with over 250, 000 companies using CARM and over 99 % of the goods being released into Canada having financial security.
• These changes are important to secure debt to the Crown.
• For small business, who traditionally have relied on the services of a customs brokers to import goods, the requirement to sign up for a CARM account and obtain financial security has had an impact on business.
• The CARM help desk continues to support businesses set up their accounts and businesses with 1 to 10 imports a year have adopted the requirement for financial security.
• The introduction of CARM did not negatively impact imports to Canada as demonstrated by volumes of imports and that CARM collected $41.7 billion in duties and taxes in fiscal year 2024-2025, almost $2 billion more than in previous years.
• CARM has greater than 99% systems availability since December 2024, demonstrating the importance of having business systems in place to manage today's volumes of trade.

Q9 - What has CBSA done about the systems outages

• We recognize the impacts felt by travellers and trade chain partners when IT systems are down.
• A joint report by the CBSA and SSC has identified key causes and measures to better prevent and mitigate outages.
• CBSA has been engaging air travel and commercial and trade stakeholders to keep them updated on progress.
• During an outage, the CBSA ensures an adequate number of primary inspection lines are open, while maintaining normal operations.
• The CBSA collaborates with trade partners and stakeholders to facilitate the flow of commercial goods.

Q 10 - How does the CBSA collect VIN data? What issues has the Agency identified

• The CBSA collects VIN data at the border as part of its export declaration process.
• VINs are self-reported by exporters at the border.
• Internal verifications have shown some VINs are reused or fabricated to clone or mask stolen vehicles.

Q11 - Why does the CBSA have an arrangement with CARFAX and Équité Association

• Under the National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft, the CBSA moved forward with establishing an information sharing process with CARFAX and Équité, a Canadian not for profit.
• They work directly with law enforcement to recover stolen vehicles and provide expert testimony, ensuring data is used for recovery.
• The majority of car dealerships were already paying for and using comprehensive vehicle reports in their daily operations before the Agency began sharing information. VIN information did not increase those fees.

Q12 - Why can't you make the VIN data public for all to access on the web

• VIN data is customs information and the Customs Act has rules on how information can be shared.
• VIN data cannot be made accessible to the public on the web because it is not fully verified, and releasing it could be harmful to the public. For example, it could result in the loss of insurance coverage, difficulty in registering a vehicle, or facilitate VIN fraud by bad actors.
• The CBSA only shares this data with specific groups like CARFAX Canada and Équité Association. This helps stop car theft while still keeping Canadians' personal information safe.

Q13 - What is the CBSA doing about the importing of goods produced with Forced Labour

• Importers are responsible for ensuring that the goods they are importing into Canada are not directly or indirectly produced by forced labour.
• The Government of Canada expects companies to take every step possible to ensure that their supply chains conform to Canadian law.
• With respect to the allegations of forced labour, as outlined in CBSA Memorandum D9-1-6, goods manufactured or produced wholly or in part by forced labour are prohibited from entering Canada under tariff item 9897 of the Customs Tariff.

Q14 - What can you tell me about CBSA's duty to accommodate BSOs who can no longer carry firearms

• The CBSA has a duty to accommodate employees who can no longer be fully armed.
• At the same time, they also have a duty to spend taxpayer money wisely and ensure employees meet the requirements of the job.
• I know that the CBSA is committed to working with employees requiring accommodations.

Committee Notes - Iran and IRGC

Q1- How has the threat environment changed since the conflict in Iran

• CSIS continues to assess that Iranian threat-related activities directed at Canada and its allies are likely to continue in 2026.
• At present, CSIS is not aware of any threat-related incidents in Canada directly linked to the Iran conflict. The National Terrorism Threat Level (NTTL) remains at a MEDIUM level (an attack is a realistic possibility in Canada in the next six months).
• We continue to monitor the threat environment with heightened vigilance.
• CSIS works closely with IRCC and CBSA to support the integrity of Canada's borders and immigration systems, including by providing security screening assessments and advice to inform immigration decisions made by IRCC.

Committee Notes - Jewish and Iranian Communities

Q2 - What has been the impact on Jewish and Iranian Communities

• CSIS has observed an increase in violent extremist rhetoric inspired by the conflict in the Middle East, including in Canada.
• CSIS understands that Canadians are concerned for their safety and security given the increase in anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and hate crimes.
• CSIS is working vigilantly to identify and counter potential threats.
• CSIS also works with local communities, and will continue to provide as much information as possible on the threat and the actions we are taking.
• Over the last year, CSIS has worked to counter the actions of Iranian intelligence services and their proxies who have targeted individuals they perceive as threats to their regime.
• ITAC continues to not recommend an increase to the NTTL, which remains at a MEDIUM level (an attack is a realistic possibility in Canada in the next six months), at this time. As the situation evolves, the NTTL will continue to be evaluated.
• Violent extremist threat activities directed by Iran or its proxies are being monitored closely and directly inform Canada's National Terrorism Threat Level (NTTL), a tool used by government and law enforcement agencies to mitigate risks and vulnerabilities of terrorism.

Committee Notes - Canada-US Relations

Q3 - How has Canada's security partnership with the US changed

• Canada values its partnership with the United States, and we believe that it is in the strategic interest of both countries to continue our strong national security cooperation.
• We have a number of shared interests that will continue to persist, such as counter-terrorism, and combatting espionage and foreign interference.
• Canada has strong intelligence relationships with numerous U.S. agencies that are long-standing and resilient. While we are always alive to the geopolitical environment, we will continue to collaborate and share intelligence, where appropriate, through our very comprehensive intelligence-sharing framework.
• The interconnectedness of our national security communities allows us to better protect North American security.

Committee Notes - Arctic

Q4 - What is CSIS doing to ensure the safety and security of Canada's Arctic

• Foreign interest in Canada's Arctic continues to grow due to the economic and strategic opportunities it presents, including:
  • the opening up of new trade routes,
  • the rich critical mineral resources present,
  • and opportunities to conduct valuable scientific research.
• Foreign states, such as Russia and the PRC, also have a significant intelligence interest in our Arctic and those who influence or develop its economic or strategic potential. This includes access to the region's natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals.
• CSIS protects Canadian national security interests in the region and enhances Canada's resilience against various threats. Our mandate in the Arctic includes:
  • Investigating activities in the Arctic/North that are suspected to be threats to Canada's security;
  • Advising the Government and stakeholders and rights-holders in the region on these threats;
  • Engaging with rights-holders and organizations, the private sector, and the public, among others to help build their resiliency to threats; and
  • Collecting intelligence on regional activities and threats and taking mitigative action as appropriate.
• CSIS continues to work with key partners in Canada, including territorial governments, Indigenous governments and organizations, industry, and communities.
• CSIS engages regularly with Indigenous and Arctic rights holders to learn from their insights and help build resilience to threats.

Committee Notes - Foreign Interference

Q5- Have you observed new threats in terms of espionage activities or foreign interference or transnational repression from foreign actors such as India and China

• CSIS continues to take all allegations of foreign interference and transnational repression seriously. CSIS remains vigilant against all foreign interference and espionage threats, regardless of where they originate from.
• Canada's recent engagements with these countries provides CSIS with the opportunity to work toward constructive resolutions of issues bilaterally, in a way that can assure better security outcomes for Canadians.

Committee Notes - Security Clearances

Q6 - What does CSIS do in relation to security screenings

• CSIS has two roles as it relates to security screening:
  • Providing advice to IRCC regarding immigration and citizenship applications. CBSA and IRCC can refer applications to CSIS for comprehensive security screening on immigration applications. CSIS reviews all in Canada asylum applications and all citizenship applications.
  • Providing advice to Deputy Heads of other government departments to allow them to make decisions on security clearances for government officials.
• CSIS's government security screening program provides security assessments to requesting federal departments that are sponsoring the clearance of an employee or an individual with a need to receive classified information.
  • For members of provincial governments, the Privy Council Office is generally the sponsoring department, and the one that ultimately grants the clearance.
  • CSIS supports the Government of Canada's national security engagement with provincial and territorial governments.

Committee Notes - Alberta Sovereignty Movement

Q7- Is CSIS monitoring the Alberta Sovereignty Movement

• CSIS does not investigate lawful protest, advocacy and dissent.
• CSIS investigates where a foreign state might seek to use covert or obfuscated means to divide Canadians, amplify narratives that reflect the positions of a foreign state which may be detrimental to Canada, or otherwise deceptively interfere in domestic political processes.

Committee Notes

Q1 – Why are convicted terrorists and high-risk offenders being released into our community on statutory release

• In the last year, our government introduced multiple bills to combat crimes and keep our communities safe.
• The Parole Board of Canada (PBC) imposes conditions when an offender is released on Statutory release.
• In certain cases, the PBC may impose a condition requiring an offender to reside in a Community-Based Residential Facility, which is the most restrictive form of release.
• For offenders in the community, any risk is managed through strict monitoring and supervision strategies.
• We take our mandate to protect the safety of our communities very seriously and when the risk of an offender is increased or there is a change in an offender's behaviour or compliance with their conditions, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) takes immediate action, which can include suspending their release and returning them to custody.

Q2 – What programming is provided to radicalized offenders to prevent them from reoffending

• Radicalization is not a new phenomenon in federal corrections; rather, CSC has a long history of successfully managing offenders who have been radicalized.
• Extensive case management plans are developed to manage radicalized offenders, including detailed correctional plans that are customized for each offender's risk and needs.
• Programming works to target violence and the influence of antisocial associates, which are common to radicalized offenders.
• In addition, CSC reviews interventions used in other jurisdictions to ensure that current and best practices are applied.
• CSC does, and will, continue to share information with both domestic and international partners, including within the law enforcement and national security community, to keep Canadians safe.

Q3 – Incidents, like the recent one at Springhill Institution, are deeply concerning. What is CSC doing to better protect its staff from increasing violence

• Incidents of staff assault are taken very seriously by CSC. Specific to Springhill Institution, reviews are underway, and we will continue working closely with partners, to ensure accountability and strengthen prevention, where possible.
• We recognize the threat posed by contraband, including drugs and weapons, entering institutions by drones.
• The Spring Economic Update outlines targeted investments to strengthen CSC's ability to detect and disrupt drone activity and enhance security technology in our institutions, which is an important step to protecting staff and maintaining safe operations.
• Supporting CSC employees goes beyond responding to incidents. It means investing in safer workplaces, modern tools, and strong mental health supports.
• Together, we remain committed to ensuring CSC staff have the tools and resources they need.

Q4 – At a time of increased violence and threats in our prisons, why is CSC cutting front-line staff, including mobile patrol units

• With new, innovative technologies being introduced, CSC is committed to reviewing its deployment standards to ensure they reflect today's operational realities.
• Continuing to add layers of security technologies to its operations leads to better responses to potential threats, including drones.
• Correctional Officer posts, including Mobile Patrol posts, remain an important component of security.
• However, with improvements in contraband detection technology, as well as direct supervision by staff, CSC will continue to support the effective response to threats, using a layered approach to security.
• This includes the announcement in the Spring Economic Update which outlines targeted investments to strengthen CSC's ability to detect and disrupt drone activity and enhance security technology in our institutions, which is an important step to protecting staff and maintaining safe operations.

Q5 – Why is Darren Ray in a minimum-security unit without any fences at a time when Durham police say he is too much of a risk to be allowed in the community

• While I cannot comment on specific offenders, CSC contributes to the safety of institutions and the public by ensuring that all inmates are placed in institutions that match their security classification level.
• Inmates are classified based on the necessary degree of supervision and control within the penitentiary, escape risk, and risk to public safety in the event of an escape.
• All transfers to lower levels of security occur only after CSC has duly considered an inmate's risk and how best to manage it.
• In recent years, CSC has strengthened its assessment for those seeking a transfer to a minimum institution.
• An inmate can be returned to a higher security level at any point if deemed necessary to ensure the safety of the public or the institution.

Committee Notes

Q1 - Why does the Parole Board keep releasing violent criminals into the community

• The safety of the public is always the paramount consideration in all Parole Board of Canada decisions.
• The vast majority of offenders do not reoffend violently while on conditional release.
• In fact, over the last five years, 99.7% of federal day parole and 99.3% of federal full parole supervision periods were completed without violent reoffending. This success rate is among the highest in the world.
• Conditional release helps offenders reintegrate into the community gradually and safely, under supervision. It also helps them access community resources.
• Under the law, all offenders, including those serving a life sentence, are eligible for different types of conditional release during their sentence, such as Escorted/Unescorted Temporary Absences, Day and Full Parole.
• Offenders on conditional release are supervised in the community by CSC and must follow strict conditions.
• If an offender violates their parole conditions or poses an increased risk to the community, they may be returned to prison. In addition, if an offender fails to comply with the conditions on their unescorted temporary absence (UTA), the UTA and any future UTAs that were authorized may be cancelled.

Q2 - There have been recent instances of offenders on parole committing murder. How do you defend this? Isn't this proof the system is broken and needs to be fixed

• First, I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the victims of such tragic incidents.
• Violent offences by individuals on conditional release are always shocking, but thankfully also extremely rare.
• In fact, over the last five years, 99.7% of federal day parole and 99.3% of federal full parole supervision periods were completed without violent reoffending.
• That said, parole decision-making is based on an empirically supported framework. However, assessing and predicting human behaviour is both complex and difficult.
• Parole reviews involve a thorough risk assessment conducted by independent Parole Board of Canada Board members, who receive extensive training.
• The safety of the public is always the paramount consideration in all Parole Board of Canada decisions, as evidenced by the Board's outcomes.
• In making its decisions, by law, the Parole Board is required to make the least restrictive determination.
• In the rare event where an offender has re-offended violently in the community, the PBC Chairperson and CSC Commissioner may convene an independent Board of Investigation to thoroughly review and analyze all the facts around the incident and make recommendations.

Q3 - Victims have told us they feel their voices are not being heard in the parole process. How do you respond to this

• The Government recognizes the important role that victims play in the conditional release process and is committed to respecting their rights.
• During fiscal year 2024-25, the PBC had over 24,000 contacts with victims and supported the participation of over 1,000 victims and their support persons in attending hearings.
• Parole Board members are legally required to consider all relevant and available information, including victim statements, when making their conditional release decisions.
• Victims may attend parole board hearings and present a victim statement for consideration by Board members. They can also request that special conditions be placed on an offender's conditional release.
• The Parole Board will impose any conditions on the offender's release that are considered reasonable and necessary to protect the victim.

Q4 - If an offender is considered "a high risk to public safety" and denied day parole, how can the Board authorize an Unescorted Temporary Absence

• Unlike parole, an Unescorted Temporary Absence (UTA) is granted for a specified purpose. For example, for medical purposes, family contact, or personal development (such as to complete a treatment program only offered outside of the institution).
• When deciding whether to authorize a UTA, the PBC considers all relevant available information to determine whether the criteria under the law are met.
• This includes consideration of the limited duration of the UTA, as well as the structured plan for the offender while on the UTA, including any conditions of release. It also includes static risk assessments which do not take into account changes the offender may have made during their sentence.
• A UTA does not guarantee future absences or parole, and the Board may cancel it at any time if conditions change, a breach occurs, or new information arises.
• In all cases, public safety is the paramount consideration in decision-making.

Anticipated Questions

Q1 - What funding is requested through the Main Estimates

• The 2026-27 Main Estimates total authorities for Public Safety Canada (PS) is $2,252.8M.
  • $265.8M in Vote 1 – Operating expenditures
  • $1,958.5M in Vote 5 – Grants and contributions, and
  • $28.6M in Statutory authorities.

Q2 - How have Public Safety's total authorities changed between 2025–26 and 2026–27

• Overall, the Department of Public Safety's total authorities for 2026-27 have a net increase of $89.9M or 4.2% from the previous year's total Main Estimates.
  • Vote 1 authorities decreased from $346.7M to $265.8M (23.3% decrease)
  • Vote 5 authorities increased from $1,787.5M to $1,958.5M (9.6% increase)
  • Statutory authorities decreased from $28.8M to $28.6M (0.8% decrease)

Q3 - What are the main factors driving the increase in the Public Safety's authorities for 2026–27

• The main factors contributing to the changes in funding levels include:
  • An increase of $490.9M in Vote 5 authorities for the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program (DFAA)
  • An increase of $38.2M in Vote 5 authorities for the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program
  • An increase of $37.8M in Vote 5 authorities for the First Nations and Inuit Policing Facilities Program
• These increases are offset by the following decreases:
  • A decrease of $308.9M for the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program ($59.9M in Vote 1 and $249.0M in Vote 5). A reprofile of funding from 2025-26 of $203.2M has been approved and will be reflected in the 2026-27 Supplementary Estimates A.
  • A decrease of $57.1M due to expiry for the Canada's 2025 G7 Presidency ($4.3M in Vote 1 and $52.8M in Vote 5)
  • A decrease of $54.4M due to expiry of the Building Safer Communities Fund ($1.9M in Vote 1 and $52.5M in Vote 5). The renewal for this program will be reflected in the 2026-27 Supplementary Estimates A.

Q4 - How is the Comprehensive Expenditures Review (CER), announced in Budget 2025, reflected in the 2026–27 Main Estimates

• Measures announced under the Comprehensive Expenditure Review are reflected in these Main Estimates and represent a $15.3M reduction in funding (Vote 1 and statutory authorities), enabling the Department to meet its 2026–27 target.

Q5 - What is the most significant item in these Main Estimates and what are the intended uses of the funding requested

• The most significant item is $1.1 billion dollars for the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) contribution program. This amount represents a $490.9M increase in contributions funding for the DFAA program from the previous year.
• Public Safety regularly consults with provinces and territories (P&Ts) to ensure funding levels meet disbursement requirements under the DFAA legislation and aligns funding levels accordingly.
• The majority of the main estimates funding ($1.0 billion) is the result of a reprofile of funds from 2024-25 to 2026-27, as final payments for the following Orders in Council (OiC) were delayed to 2026-27:
  • $410M – 2013 Alberta Flood (OiC 162)
  • $159M – 2017 British Columbia Interface Fire (OiC 211)
  • $60M – 2018 British Columbia Interface Fire (OiC 219)

Q6 - What is the current status of funding for the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program, and how will it support program implementation

• The program received $148.8M in Main Estimates
  • $55.2M in Vote 1 – Operating expenditures, and
  • $93.6M in Vote 5 – Grants and contributions
• A request for a reprofile of funding of $203.2M has been approved and will be reflected in the 2026–27 Supplementary Estimates A.
• At that time, total authorities for the Assault-Styles Firearms Compensation Program will increase to $352.0M.
• This funding will allow the program to:
  • Fully deliver the businesses phase, and
  • Support completion of the individuals phase, including the collection and safe destruction of individually-owned assault-style firearms.

Anticipated Questions

Q1 - Given that $238.8M (or $263.9M with Employee Benefits Plan) in RCMP's Main Estimates authorities is funding to expand support and capacity within the Federal Policing mandate, can the Minister explain what specific outcomes and operational enhancements are expected from this investment

• This funding, over four years, will expand the RCMP's federal policing workforce by 1,000 new, dedicated personnel. This will include 350 additional Regular Members in the first year of funding.
• This investment will focus on tackling financial crimes and increase investigative capacity to address the most serious criminal threats, including organized crime, cybercrime and national security.
• The approach will support targeted recruitment and training focused on the specialized skills required for federal policing.
• This investment will also increase the Cadet Recruitment Allowance from $525/week to $1,000/week. This change helps offset the real costs faced by applicants during the recruitment and training process and makes the path to joining the RCMP more accessible and competitive.

Q2 - Minister, the 2026–27 Main Estimates include an incremental $36.2 million for the RCMP to enhance the integrity of Canada's borders. Could you elaborate on how this funding will be allocated, what specific gaps it is intended to address, and what measurable outcomes Canadians should expect as a result

• The 2024 Fall Economic Statement announced Canada's new Border Plan, backed by an investment of $1.3 billion. Of this amount, the RCMP received $643.7 million ($667.5 million including Shared Services Canada (SSC) and Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) costs) over six years, starting in fiscal year 2024-25, and $82.4 million ($86 million including SSC and PSPC costs) ongoing to increase border enforcement capacity.
• The RCMP is allocating the $643.7 million towards three main lines of effort:
  • Deploying a new Aerial Intelligence Task Force;
  • Increasing Investigative Capacity; and
  • Establishing a North American Joint Strike Force.
• Investments from Canada's Border Plan build on the RCMP's existing measures to increase capacity to patrol, detect, and respond to serious criminal threats including fentanyl production and illegal migration.
• For example, this funding has enabled the RCMP to:
  • Deploy a multi-capability Aerial Intelligence Task Force, integrating helicopters, drones, mobile surveillance systems, and counter-drone technology, to deliver continuous monitoring between ports of entry and accelerate response times to border incidents;
  • Establish a money laundering intelligence partnership to increase information sharing on money laundering and organized crime, bringing together law enforcement and the Domestic Systemically Important Banks;
  • Stand up a North American Joint Strike Force to combat illegal substances and related organized crime activity, and establishing four regional Integrated Synthetic Enforcement Teams in strategic locations across Canada to conduct illicit drug investigations; and
  • Participate in two national fentanyl sprints to date led by the Canadian Integrated Response to Organized Crime, which resulted in significant seizures of illegal substances and over 8,000 arrests and charges.

Anticipated Questions

Q1 - How much funding will the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) receive in the 2026–27 Main Estimates

The CBSA is seeking $3.07 billion in 2026–27, which represents an increase of $76.9 million, or 2.6 percent, compared to last year's Main Estimates.

• The increase to the CBSA 2026-27 Main Estimates is related to:
  • Capital investment for infrastructure projects, including Land Border Crossings and Marine Container Examination Facilities. The aim is to strengthen enforcement capacity, modernise facilities, and support the secure flow of people and goods.
  • Additional funding to deliver on the commitment to hire 1,000 new CBSA Officers.
• These funding increases are partially offset by Comprehensive Expenditure Review reductions to back office functions.

Q2 - What funding is being provided to hire 1,000 new Officers, and how will it be implemented

Budget 2025 provides $669 million over five years and $198.3 million ongoing to Strengthen Canada's Borders.

• In 2026–27, CBSA will receive $77 million through the Main Estimates to support this initiative.
• This funding will support two areas:
  • Recruitment, training and deployment of 1,000 new CBSA officers, as well as an increased stipend for all Border Services Officer Trainees.
  • Investment in infrastructure, including renovations to the CBSA College, two new container examination facilities, and upgrades to IT systems.

Q3 - What are CBSA's savings under the Government of Canada's Comprehensive Expenditure Review (CER) included in the 2026–27 Main Estimates

• CBSA's 2026–27 Main Estimates include $44.1 million in savings, plus $7.9 million in Employee Benefit Plan adjustments, for a total of $52 million under the Comprehensive Expenditure Review.
• CBSA's savings will focus on reducing administrative overhead, streamlining internal business processes, and making use of data to manage the workforce more efficiently.
• The CBSA is on track to deliver on the saving proposals while at the same time advancing Canada's strategy to strengthen CBSA's front line capacity, through the hiring of 1,000 new officers.
• The Agency's CER savings initiatives will not impact frontline border operations.

Anticipated Questions

Q1 - How does CSIS protect Canada's sovereignty, especially given the current geopolitical context

• CSIS is mandated to investigate threats to the security of Canada. CSIS reports to and advises the Government of Canada, and in specific circumstances, to take measures to reduce these threats.
• Under the Act, CSIS is authorized to investigate as espionage, and sabotage, foreign interference, terrorism and violent extremism, and subversion.
  • CSIS does not investigate lawful advocacy, protest, or dissent.
• CSIS prioritizes its resources to address threats to the security of Canada.
• As part of its functions, CSIS:
  • Collect intelligence relating to the security of Canada and Canadian national interests;
  • Provides advice and disseminates intelligence to Government of Canada partners to increase understanding of threats to Canada and to help inform decision making;
  • Takes actions to reduce threats to the security of Canada;
  • Works closely with Canadian entities and national security partners so they are aware of the threat environment and have the information they need to build resiliency to threats.

Q2 - Does CSIS have the tools it needs to perform its duties and functions, and ensure the safety and security of Canada and all Canadians

• CSIS operates in a world where the threat landscape is always evolving. The tools CSIS uses must also evolve and adapt, both in their scope and scale, to reflect the complexity of the current domestic and global national security environment.
  • CSIS therefore takes a rigorous approach to prioritizing its resources, tools, and efforts to best effect.
• The government also continuously evaluates CSIS's capabilities and posture to ensure that we take any measures needed to keep our national security toolkit up to date, and best-placed to keep Canadians safe, secure, and prosperous.

Q3 - Without a breakdown of CSIS's expenditures, how can we be sure the funding is being applied effectively

• Given the sensitivity of its operations, CSIS limits the publicly available details on its financial expenditures. However, CSIS will continue to use its annual reports and other disclosures to inform Canadians and the Government of Canada on its plans, priorities and progress.
• CSIS is also subject to robust review and oversight, including from National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA), the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP), the Intelligence Commissioner, Privacy Commissioner and others to satisfy legislative and reporting obligations, including on financial matters.
• Furthermore, CSIS has robust internal and external audit and evaluation mechanisms that fully examine the organization's expenditures, among other activities
• While breakdowns of CSIS's expenditures are classified, I can share some of the ways this funding supports CSIS in delivering its mandated functions:
  • CSIS prepares intelligence reports, assessments and advice for the government to inform decision-making, to protect Canada's investments, industries and Canadians' interests.
  • CSIS engages with communities, the private sector, and other partners to help raise awareness and build resiliency against threats.
  • CSIS also takes measures to reduce threats if there are reasonable grounds to believe the security of Canada and Canadians is at risk.
  • CSIS provides security assessments on individuals who require access to classified information or sensitive sites within the Government of Canada, and
  • conducts foreign intelligence collection within Canada at the request of the Minister of Foreign Affairs or the Minister of National Defence.

Q4 - How does CSIS's budget align with the government's NATO-related spending

• CSIS's full annual budget counts toward Canada's core defence contributions, given the central role CSIS plays in the defence of Canada, both through NATO and other efforts. This aligns Canada's approach to defence spending with that of our allies.
• CSIS's efforts to protect national security and provide an intelligence advantage contributed to Canada meeting the 2025-26 target of spending 2% of GDP on defence, and are part of collective work towards 5% by 2035.

Q5 - What kind of impacts can Canadians expect once CSIS's funding has been implemented

• The threat environment is constantly evolving, increasing in volume, velocity and variety of threats. Advances in technology have increased the sophistication of threat actors.
• This funding will help CSIS ensure it has the capability to respond to a multitude of threats, including foreign interference, violent extremism, and espionage.
• Canadians can expect to be more informed, continue to have access to tools and support societal resiliency in the face of such threats, and be assured that CSIS is steadfast in its efforts to keep Canada and Canadians safe.

Explanation of Significant Changes

• The net increase of $138.0 million compared to Main Estimates 2025 to 2026 is primarily attributable to additional funding for collective agreement ratification and capital investment to support our infrastructure requirements.

Anticipated Questions

Q1 - Increase in Funding for the Main Estimates 2026-2027

• The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) has sought increased funding under the Main Estimates 2026-2027 to sustain its operations.
• This funding will be used to address CSC's key operating pressures, due to increasing security risks, evolving offender profiles, aging infrastructure, and the need to adapt to emerging technologies and environmental challenges.

Q2 - Why is CSC seeking additional funding for investments in correctional facilities

• $45.2M of the increase in funding is dedicated to investments in correctional facilities.
• These investments will support CSC in continuing to meet its mandate of safe and secure custody of offenders and the safety and security of the public, victims, staff and offenders in institutions as well as in the community.
• Many CSC institutions were designed decades ago, which can pose certain challenges and risks.
• Aging infrastructure affects not only the offenders who live in these facilities, but creates challenging working conditions for our employees, including from a health, rehabilitation, and safety perspective.
• Through targeted investments that seek to make upgrades and repairs to some aging facilities, we will promote a healthier environment conducive to offender rehabilitation as well as longer-term well-being of our employees.

Q3 - What is the funding for collective agreements for

• Contained within the Main Estimates 2026-27 is a request of $143.4M for funding to cover an increase in compensation for ratification of collective agreement.
• This increase is mainly due to the Correctional Officer collective agreement signed in February 2025.
• CSC employees work tirelessly across the country to supervise offenders in our institutions and our communities. Their work is unique and has certain inherent challenges.
• In recognition of this, CSC reached an agreement with its labour partners to increase wage enhancements for thousands of employees.
• The funding being requested through the Main Estimates recognizes CSC employees' significant contributions to maintaining public safety and will ensure that posts continue to be occupied by the most qualified personnel.

Q4 - What about the risks posed by drones? Are there investments there

• The Main Estimates 2026-27 will also allow us to address key operating pressures and priorities.
• This includes continuing to invest in innovative technologies to ensure that we have the best possible response to the threat posed by drones and contraband.
• The Spring Economic Update outlines targeted investments of $60.4M over three years and $2.3M ongoing for Correctional facilities and immigration holding centres to strengthen our ability to detect and disrupt drone activity and enhance security technologies in our institutions.
• In addition, CSC is expanding its pilot related to the operation of jamming technologies to mitigate the impact of drones, the result of which will inform further utilization at select institutions in the future.
• CSC also continues to introduce full body scanners at institutions across the country, with a plan to have them at all institutions by the end of the 2029-2030 fiscal year.
• With improvements in contraband detection technology, as well as direct supervision by staff, CSC will continue to support the effective response to threats, using a layered approach to security.

Anticipated Questions

• The total funding sought by the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) in the Main Estimates for 2026-27 is $71.6M, representing a $0.9M or 1.2% decrease over the previous year. This decrease can mainly be explained by:
  • The Refocusing of Government Spending announced under the Budget 2023 (a reduction of $0.8M).
  • The implementation of the partially approved amount of the Comprehensive Expenditure Review (CER) announced under the Budget 2025 (a reduction of $1.2M).
• Offset by:
  • Funding received for employee compensation and various other small items (an increase of $1.1M).
• The Parole Board will allocate 79% of its resources to its core program delivery, broken down as followed:
  • 57% for conditional release and related support.
  • 7% for conditional release openness and accountability.
  • 15% for record suspension/pardons and expungement decisions, and clemency recommendations.
  • And 21% of its resources will be allocated to internal services.
• Overall, the PBC plans on spending:
  • $63.1M (88%) in operating expenditures, net of revenue.
  • $8.5M (12%) for employee benefit plans.
• Spending is based on the plan that there will be 510 full-time equivalents (FTEs), including Board members (Governor in council appointees).