Re: “Fear of Bill C-51 is an over-reaction,” letter, March 18.

I agree with the writer on one thing: People do not trust Stephen Harper.

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By expanding the definition of terrorism so broadly that it includes dissent, the Harper government seeks to characterize First Nations activists and anyone questioning a big petroleum agenda as “terrorists.” This is meant to have a chilling effect on dissent in Canada.

Bill C-51 would change CSIS from information-gathering to a brand-new agency that could actively intervene to disrupt activities by, for instance, infiltrating groups, instigating violence and a potentially infinite range of measures so broad the government felt the need to tell us that “infringements on sexual integrity” would not be allowed. Great.

Bill C-51 would allow for secret trials in Canada. In violation of our international obligations, it would allow evidence obtained through torture to be admitted to court, without the judge knowing.

Bill C-51 would permit the sharing of any information about us among 17 different government departments and agencies, ensuring that the government will start building profiles of Canadians because of their political or social activism.

There is zero effective oversight on these activities. Arthur Porter, the man Harper appointed to the SIRC, is awaiting extradition to Canada on corruption charges.

Canadians are right not to trust Harper on Bill C-51. It will not make us safer. It is not at all hyperbole to say that Bill C-51 will create a secret police in Canada.

Terry Cormier

Victoria