Spy agency kept minister in the dark: watchdog

A federal watchdog says the Canadian Security Intelligence Service failed to tell the public safety minister about a notable overseas incident during a probe into jihadi-inspired fighters.

In its annual report today, the Security Intelligence Review Committee says CSIS should have informed the minister about the development — one of several shortcomings the committee notes about the spy service’s investigations of Canadian foreign fighters.

The review committee says CSIS needs to deal with lingering challenges associated with overseas operations.

It says the spy service can expect these challenges to increase as government demand for intelligence on threats to the security of Canada from conflict zones grows.

The committee finds the spy service needs to emphasize strategic planning for foreign operations — for instance, ensuring employees fully understand the legal risks of certain activities.

It also calls on CSIS headquarters to take a more decisive leading role in some foreign activities. SAINT-EUSTACHE, Que. — Police near Montreal have asked for the public’s help in finding out who killed and mutilated an ostrich described by its owner as “proud and beautiful.” The three-metre-tall male bird was found stabbed to death on Sept. 4, said SaintEustache police spokesman Normand Brulotte. He said the ostrich was discovered in its farm enclosure with its legs cut off but he did not say what kind of weapon was used.