Several major Canadian government websites and servers have been taken down in a cyber attack, the government said.

The hacking group, Anonymous, has taken responsibility for the attacks, stating that they were in retaliation for the new anti-terrorism law — Bill C-51 — that was just passed by Canada's lawmakers.

The primary website for government services, Canada.ca, as well as the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) website, were among those affected.

The government said the attack also disrupted email, Internet access and servers, and that they are working to restore the services.

Cabinet minister Tony Clement who heads the Canadian Treasury Board, publically confirmed the attack on Twitter.

In a video posted on YouTube in January, Anonymous said the law violated human rights and targeted people who disagree with the government.

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Bill C-51 — also known as the Anti-terrorism Act, 2015 — would broaden the mandate of the CSIS, giving the agency new powers to disrupt perceived security threats.

The legislation, once enacted by the government, would also make it easier for federal agencies to increase surveillance and share information about individuals.

Public safety minister Steven Blaney denounced the cyber attacks, telling reporters there were other democratic ways for Canadians to express their views.

He also added that the Canadian government is now working to improve its cyber security.

Reuters