Bill C-51: Oversight vs. Review

The subtle yet significant difference between review vs. monitoring is too often overlooked, and necessitates thorough analysis and attention. This paper will speak to the necessity of implementing an effective oversight body, to monitor and to hold accountable various security agencies granted expansive kinetic powers under the current proposed Bill C-51. As will be suggested, a hybrid model, comprised of both a National Security Advisor who would embody a role similar to that of the previous Inspector General, as well as the establishment of a Statutory Committee, as opposed to the current Committee of Parliamentarians as proposed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, would effectively provide for collective decision-making, and crucial oversight. A thorough analysis of the current oversight mechanisms in place in other commonwealth countries, namely Australia and Great Britain, will additionally be examined.