Controversial anti-terror bill officially signed into law
The controversial anti-terror legislation, Bill C-51 passed the Senate on June 9. In spite of heavy opposition from both the Liberal and New Democratic parties, as well as vocal criticism from the press, senators voted to pass the bill with a 44-28 vote.
Since it was first revealed to the public several months ago, Bill C-51 has been constantly on the lips of the nation’s politicians. Liberal party leader, Justin Trudeau, and New Democratic Party (NDP) leader, Thomas Mulcair, have both raised their voices in opposition to the legislation drafted by Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s Conservative government.
Understandably, Conservative representatives have been ardent supporters of Bill C-51. After news was announced that the Anti-terrorism Act, 2015—the bill’s formal name—was passed, Liberal Senator Jim Munson declared a stern condemnation for the senators who had stood in support of passing the bill into law.
“Proud to stand today with 25 Lib Senators against Bill C51,” said Munson, in a tweet published shortly after the Senate voted. “But the Con majority passed the bill which will affect [Canadians’] rights.”
Canadian politicians have been joined by public citizens, whose disapproving voices are united in a chorus against the anti-terrorism legislation. In addition to the approximately 243,000 Canadians who have spoken out against Bill C-51, writers like Margaret Atwood have also raised their voices in concern.
“Senators should not be fundraisers for any political party,” said Atwood, in a quote for the National Observer. “Trudeau had the right idea in uncoupling them from caucus. Senators are paid by the public and should serve us, not shill for politicians on the rubber-chicken circuit. They should work to protect us from authoritarian tendencies and dictatorial aspirations, such as power grabs like C-51, the clear intention of which is to undercut and circumvent the Charter [of Right and Freedoms].”
A day after the Senate voted, Bill C-51 received royal assent on the afternoon of Thursday, June 18, 2015. Those who flouted the legislation’s benefits were excited to discuss their understanding of the bill’s numerous social and cultural protective plans.
In addition to politicians and members of the public, online advocates have stated their disapproval for Bill C-51. Objections have been raised by the so-called Internet Majority on a number of forums, and many threats have been made by a gaggle of anonymous online users.
Though suspects have not been revealed, Government of Canada websites suffered a cyberattack on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 17, 2015. Politicians connected to Government of Canada servers, including Conservative party MP Tony Clement, explained that Government of Canada websites were under attack.
“Confirmed today that Govt of Canada GC servers have been cyberattacked,” said Clement in a tweet on June 17.
Clement also directed concerned members of the public to contact a toll-free number if they required governmental attention. It is important to recognize that sources under investigation are sparse, but it is evident that the directed denial of service (DDoS) attack was carried out with malicious intent.
Bill C-51’s controversy stems from the loose manner in which it ascribes the charges of terrorism. The legislation’s critics have attempted to argue that the bill’s language allows the federal government to unlawfully charge outspoken citizens—who are well within their Charter rights—with charges of terrorism. However, Bill C-51’s advocates claim that the legislation is a necessary step in the ongoing battle against terrorism.