C-51 is beyond repair–scrap the secret policeman’s bill

John Bell

As we go to press, the Harper Tories have announced that they will accept a number of amendments to their draconian “anti-terror” legislation, Bill C-51.

In part, this is due to a massive wave of opposition, rallies and teach-ins all across the country. Popular support for the Bill has plummeted as people have seen how much unrestricted power it grants to domestic spy agencies.

But it also fits with tried and true Tory strategy. Time and again they have introduced sweeping legislation, faced popular outcry, granted a few cosmetic concessions, demobilized the opposition and got away with what they wanted. 

We can’t let it happen again. No amendments can salvage C-51. Running through the very heart of the Bill is language defining terrorism so vaguely that the term can be applied to almost anyone who acts to oppose government policy.

In recent days we have witnessed a frightening level of police violence in Quebec, directed at peaceful protests against government austerity measures. It seems that even before it is passed, the tabling of Bill C-51 has emboldened the state and police, determined to stamp out popular opposition before it can grow.

Standing up against Bill C-51 must continue, and we have to connect that fight to the ongoing opposition to austerity and war. Harper knows these things are tied together. We can do no less.