The heavily-redacted report indicated that some MPs and senators have been "wittingly assisting foreign state actors" soon after their election.

Foreign Interference

A recent report by the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP) has revealed that some Canadian Parliamentarians are allegedly aiding foreign governments, such as China and India, in meddling in Canadian politics. This report, which was tabled in the House of Commons on June 3, 2024, has caused significant concern due to its findings about the extent of foreign interference and the complicity of some elected officials​ (NSICOP)​​ (Canada.ca)​.

The heavily-redacted report indicated that some MPs and senators have been "wittingly assisting foreign state actors" soon after their election. Specific instances mentioned include MPs influencing their colleagues on behalf of India and providing confidential information to Indian officials​ (NSICOP)​. The report also criticized the lack of effective information-sharing mechanisms between the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and other government entities, which has created vulnerabilities that foreign actors can exploit​ (Yahoo News - Latest News & Headlines)​.

Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc acknowledged the seriousness of the findings but noted that the government disagrees with some aspects of the report, particularly its interpretation of intelligence and the assessment of the government's efforts to address foreign interference​ (Yahoo News - Latest News & Headlines)​. In response, the government has proposed measures to enhance its response to these threats, including the introduction of Bill C-70, which aims to curb foreign interference and establish a foreign influence transparency registry​ (Canada.ca)​​ (CityNews Toronto)​.

The report has spurred further action, with CSIS being instructed to prioritize informing Parliamentarians about threats against them and to enhance communication with law enforcement when necessary. This comes amid broader efforts to safeguard the integrity of Canadian elections and democratic institutions, as seen in recent initiatives and ongoing legislative measures​ (Canada.ca)​​ (CityNews Toronto)​.