by unsigned editorial
Source: The Globe and Mail
URL: [link]
Date: November 18, 2008


There is something about the story of secret agents following suspected terrorist Mohamed Harkat into an Ottawa washroom and sitting behind him and his wife in a movie - Bon Cop, Bad Cop - that nicely illustrates the way Canadian democracy bends over backward to ensure that due process and liberty survive in the age of terror.

Mr. Harkat's supporters say he is subject to severe conditions of house arrest: He may leave his home on preauthorized trips for only four hours at a time, and only 12 hours a week, and only if he is accompanied by his wife. He contends that these conditions are unnecessary and are ruining his life, and is challenging them in court. Canadian taxpayers may also wish to challenge them; it turns out that up to six officers for the Canadian Border Services Agency worked full-time tracking Mr. Harkat on foot, by car and electronically. The cost in 2006-07 was at least $576,886 ($868,700 was budgeted), plus $31,000 for a new car. Imagine all the displaced persons in refugee camps who could be brought to Canada for that amount.

There are no perfect alternatives. One option is to leave him in jail, but the Federal Court says, No, his risk can probably be managed in the community. Another is to drop the extra security and cross our fingers.

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