Hands off our privacy, Vic Toews

Comments by Minister Vic Toews suggest he was surprised by some of the bill’s contents and will seek an explanation for wording in section 17 of Bill C- 30 which outlines “exceptional circumstances” under which any police officer ( or politician, or anyone they appoint) can request an Internet service provider turn over customer information without a warrant.

It turns out this public servant does not even know what his own bill says, and he has the nerve to demean anyone daring to question it.

When I see the arrogant, unprofessional, heavy- handed attitude this government has toward Canadian citizen’s democratic rights and freedoms, it makes me fear for Canada’s status as a free and democratic country. WAYNE CLARK Maple Ridge

The Conservatives eliminated the long- gun registry because it criminalized gun owners, yet they are now criminalizing millions of Canadians with their Protecting Children from Internet Predators Act.

The Conservative government says the long- form census is too intrusive on the privacy of ordinary Canadians, yet Bill C- 30 is intrusive.

Citizens who are watched by police, for whatever reason, will have no way of knowing and will lack recourse to the law in case of wrongdoing by police. What happens if police go after legitimate dissenters?

Toews owes the people of Canada an apology.

Hands off our democracy and hands off our Internet. BRIAN J. PRICE Vancouver

Canada’s Privacy Commissioner Jennifer Stoddart has called for strengthened oversight and privacy safeguards.

Any proposals to expand telecommunications surveillance must be based on a clear need for new powers, which must be demonstrated by verifiable evidence. And these new powers must include comprehensive internal controls, clear oversight, meaningful deterrents, and a system of enforcement.

Visit stopspying. ca to learn more and sign the petition. SEAN GOODMAN Vancouver