How does CSIS differ from the RCMP?
CSIS is not a law-enforcement agency. The Service is strictly concerned with collecting information and security intelligence for the purpose of advising the government. The role of the RCMP and other law enforcement agencies is to investigate criminal activity and collect evidence that can be used in criminal prosecutions. Is CSIS allowed to investigate protest groups? CSIS is mandated to investigate individuals or groups that may pose a threat to the security of Canada. As defined in section 2 of the CSIS Act, threats include espionage or sabotage, foreign-influenced activities or activities in support of terrorism. Section 2 specifically prohibits CSIS from investigating “lawful advocacy, protest or dissent” unless it is carried out in conjunction with one of the threat-related activities defined in the Act. How does CSIS decide to investigate a particular person or group? While CSIS cannot disclose its operational methodologies, it is important to note that when it decides to inves
