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Sections of the Ottawa airport are now wired with microphones that can eavesdrop on travellers’ conversations.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is nearing completion of a $500,000 upgrade of old video cameras used to monitor its new “customs controlled areas,” including the primary inspection area for arriving international passengers. As part of the work, the agency is introducing audio-monitoring equipment as well.

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“It is important to note that even though audio technology is installed, no audio is recorded at this time. It will become functional at a later date,” CBSA spokesman Chris Kealey said in a written statement.

No audio is recorded at this time. It will become functional at a later date

But whenever that occurs, the technology “will record conversations,” the agency said in a separate statement in response to Postmedia News questions.

Meanwhile, as many as 88 of the new high-definition video cameras are to be ready this summer.