Is CSIS allowed to recruit university students to spy on their colleagues on campus?
One of the acknowledged methods of investigation used by CSIS, and by security intelligence and law enforcement agencies worldwide, is the recruitment of human sources. If a CSIS investigation involves the direction of a human source or the use of intrusive devices, the Service is required, pursuant to ministerial direction, to obtain ministerial approval. Also, if a CSIS investigation involves the use of intrusive techniques, such as telephone intercepts or covert searches, the Service would be required, pursuant to section 21 of the CSIS Act, to obtain a warrant approved by a Federal Court judge. CSIS’ operational activities are also subject to ongoing review by the Security Intelligence Review Committee (SIRC) and the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), both of which are “arms-length” agencies whose main purpose is to ensure compliance with the CSIS Act, CSISpolicies and ministerial direction.
