The Canadian government defended sharing information with foreign countries including Sri Lanka saying the move was necessary to prevent “cheapening of Canadian citizenship.”
Earlier this week, Canada’s national newspaper, The Globe and Mail, reported Ottawa was sharing information with Sri Lankan counter terrorism officials.
Some privacy advocates have warned against sharing information with foreign governments. Yet, the government said the new law would allow it to verify citizenship status and answer identity questions.
“We will continue to work with the Privacy Commissioner’s office as we draft regulations, and any information shared with partner countries will be in accordance with Canada’s legal obligations,” Alexis Pavlich Press Secretary to the Minister of Citizenship told Lanka Reporter.
Pavlich went on to take a swipe at the opposition critical of immigration reforms.
“Our Conservative government is committed to strengthening the value of Canadian citizenship, and protecting Canadians from those who threaten our safety by committing gross acts of treason, terrorism and spying. Shamefully, by opposing our reasonable reforms the NDP and Liberals have cheapened Canadian citizenship and put the interests of dangerous criminals and terrorists before those of Canadians,” he added.
