Docket: DES-5-08
Citation: 2018 FC 62
BETWEEN:
|
IN THE
MATTER OF a certificate signed
pursuant
to subsection 77(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
[IRPA];
|
AND IN THE
MATTER OF the referral of that
certificate
to the Federal Court of Canada pursuant to subsection 77(1) of the IRPA;
|
AND
IN THE MATTER OF Mohamed HARKAT
|
REASONS
FOR ORDER
ROUSSEL J.
I.
Introduction
[1]
The Applicant, Mr. Mohamed Harkat, seeks to vary
the terms and conditions of his release from detention pursuant to subsection
82(4) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, SC 2001, c 27
[IRPA]. He maintains that the conditions imposed upon him continue to be
onerous on him and his family and are disproportionate to any threat he is
perceived to present.
[2]
The Respondents, the Minister of Citizenship and
Immigration [MCI] and the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
[MPSEP], submit that the existing terms and conditions should be maintained to
neutralize the danger posed by Mr. Harkat, subject to certain clarifications
and changes they propose.
[3]
For the reasons that follow, I am prepared to
make some adjustments to the terms and conditions of Mr. Harkat’s release from
detention but not to the extent that he has requested.
II.
Background
[4]
For the purposes of this application, it is not
necessary to provide a full account of the facts, procedural history and
variations brought to Mr. Harkat’s terms and conditions of release. Mr. Harkat
has a long and detailed history with the courts and much has already been written.
The reader is thus invited to review the most recent decisions rendered by this
Court regarding the reasonableness of the second security certificate issued
against Mr. Harkat (Harkat (Re), 2010 FC 1241) and the relaxation of the
terms and conditions of his release (Harkat (Re), 2009 FC 241; Harkat
(Re), 2009 FC 1008; Harkat v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration),
2013 FC 795; Harkat v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2014 FC
1034). I shall limit myself to the following brief overview.
[5]
Mr. Harkat is a citizen of Algeria. He came to
Canada in 1995 and was granted refugee status in 1997.
[6]
On December 10, 2002, the Solicitor General of
Canada and the MCI issued a first security certificate naming Mr. Harkat as a
person inadmissible to Canada on grounds of national security. He was arrested
and detained in a correctional facility until his release under strict
conditions in 2006 (Harkat v Canada (Minister of Citizenship and
Immigration), 2006 FC 628).
[7]
While this Court determined in 2005 that the
security certificate was reasonable, the Supreme Court of Canada found in Charkaoui
v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2007 SCC 9 [Charkaoui #1]
that the procedure established under the IRPA for the judicial confirmation of
security certificates, applications for release and review of detention
violated sections 7, 9 and 10(c) of the Canadian Charter of Rights
and Freedoms, Part 1 of the Constitution Act, 1982, being Schedule B
to the Canada Act 1982 (UK), 1982, c 11. It suspended the declaration of
invalidity of the impugned provisions for a period of one (1) year to allow
Parliament to enact a new regime in compliance with its reasons.
[8]
On February 22, 2008, Bill C-3, an Act to
amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (certificate and
special advocate) and to make a consequential amendment to another Act, SC
2008, c 3 (SI/2008-24) came into force. The Ministers signed a new security
certificate stating that Mr. Harkat was inadmissible to Canada on grounds of
security for the reasons described in paragraphs 34(1)(c), 34(1)(d)
and 34(1)(f) of the IRPA. After considering evidence tendered in both
open and closed hearings, this Court determined on December 9, 2010, that the
certificate was reasonable (Harkat (Re), 2010 FC 1241). This finding was
upheld by the Supreme Court of Canada on May 14, 2014 (Canada (Citizenship
and Immigration) v Harkat, 2014 SCC 37).
[9]
Since Mr. Harkat’s release from detention in
2006, the terms and conditions of release have been the subject of ongoing
reviews by this Court and over the years, have become more relaxed. Prior to
the present review, the most recent hearings were held in June 2013 (both open
and closed) and October 2014 (by way of teleconference) and resulted in
decisions dated July 7, 2013, and October 31, 2014. The terms and conditions of
release were subsequently amended on agreement of the parties by orders of this
Court on January 16, 2015, and May 27, 2015.
[10]
Generally, under the current terms and
conditions of release, eight (8) individuals have executed performance bonds in
varying amounts. Mr. Harkat has access to a desktop computer at home with
internet connectivity and he is allowed to use a SIM card mobile telephone with
the capacity of only receiving and making voice calls and text messages. The
use of any internet features on the mobile telephone is prohibited and internet
data shall be blocked through the service provider. Both the home computer and
the mobile telephone are subject to supervision by the Canada Border Services
Agency [CBSA]. While Mr. Harkat may use any landline telephone for
employment purposes at his place of employment, he is not allowed to use any
other mobile or landline telephone except in the event of an emergency, where
he cannot reasonably access his mobile or landline telephone. He is not allowed
access to the internet for employment purposes. Mr. Harkat must physically report
to the CBSA once every two (2) weeks and, to the extent he wishes to travel
outside the National Capital Region [NCR], he must remain in Canada and report
to the CBSA by telephone once per day. If he leaves the city he is in after
reporting to the CBSA, he is required to report again from the last city he is
in that day. He is also required to provide the CBSA with at least five (5)
full working days written notice of any such travel, including his itinerary.
[11]
In reviewing the submissions of the parties, I
noted that the “current conditions of release”
listed in Annex I of Mr. Harkat’s memorandum of fact and law are not the most recent
terms and conditions. It appears that the conditions listed are those which
originate from the order dated January 16, 2015, after Justice Simon Noël of
this Court issued his reasons for judgment on October 31, 2014 (Harkat v
Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2014 FC 1034). The terms and
conditions of release were subsequently amended upon agreement by the parties
by order dated May 27, 2015. For the most part, the terms and conditions are
identical except with regards to the use of a SIM card mobile telephone. The
specifics of Mr. Harkat’s current terms and conditions of release from
detention are set out in Schedule “A” attached
to these Reasons for Order.
[12]
In addition, Mr. Harkat has been advised that a
danger opinion is being processed which could result in his removal from
Canada.
III.
Proposed Changes
[13]
In his application record, Mr. Harkat requests a
number of changes to the terms and conditions of his release, including:
a.
cancellation of the $35,000.00 bond paid into
Court pursuant to Rule 149 of the Federal Courts Rules, SOR 98-106 [Rules] upon Mr. Harkat’s release from incarceration (condition
2 of the order dated May 27, 2015);
b.
reduction of the value of the performance bonds
agreed to by two (2) of his sureties (condition 3);
c.
authorization to possess a mobile telephone with
SIM card and internet connectivity (condition 4);
d.
authorization to possess and use a mobile
telephone for employment purposes (condition 4);
e.
authorization to possess and use a laptop and/or
tablet computer with internet connectivity both inside and outside of the home
(condition 7);
f.
provision that the CBSA may only access Mr.
Harkat’s computers without notice upon approval by a designated judge and only
where the CBSA has justifiable reason to believe that Mr. Harkat is not
complying with the terms and conditions of his release or because it is
necessary for the purpose of ensuring the protection of national security
and/or the safety of any person (condition 7);
g.
authorization to possess and use a computer
(desktop, tablet or laptop) for work-related purposes (condition 7);
h.
cancellation of the condition which provides
that Mr. Harkat’s wife may only access any computer technology providing she
does not allow Mr. Harkat to access it (condition 8);
i.
cancellation of the condition that other persons
may not occupy Mr. Harkat’s residence without the approval of the CBSA (condition
10);
j.
authorization to report to the CBSA by telephone
through voice verification once a month, and if not possible, that the
reporting requirement be once every three (3) months instead of once every two (2)
weeks (condition 11);
k.
authorization to travel anywhere in Canada
without having to provide notice and report to the CBSA (condition 12);
l.
requirement that in order to access Mr. Harkat’s
residence, the CBSA demonstrate to a designated judge that it has justifiable
reason to believe that Mr. Harkat is not complying with the terms and
conditions of his release or because it is necessary for the purpose of
ensuring the protection of national security or the safety of any person (condition
14); and,
m.
authorization not to appear at all Court
hearings and proceedings under the IRPA if his presence is not required (condition
17).
IV.
The Evidence
[14]
To support his application, Mr. Harkat relies on
the sworn statements of his wife, Sophie Harkat, his mother-in-law, Pierrette
Brunette, her partner, Philippe Parent and three (3) other sureties.
[15]
In her affidavit, Ms. Harkat indicates that
while she realizes that the security certificate was found to be reasonable,
she feels that the process was unfair and believes her husband to be innocent,
not a terrorist or a threat to anyone. She portrays her husband as a “kind, gentle, patient, very hard working, smart and
extremely funny” person. She also describes the pain, stress and
hardship of living under a security certificate regime. In particular, it has
been difficult for her husband to find employment given the limitations which
result from the terms and conditions of his release such as the inability to
use technology at work and his reporting schedule to CBSA. Moreover, she states
that the CBSA officers who monitor them are not discreet. For instance, during
a trip to Brockville on her birthday in September 2016, they were followed by
the CBSA officers the entire ten (10) hours of the trip despite three (3) of
Mr. Harkat’s sureties being present with him. Additionally, when the CBSA
officers come to pick up her husband’s computer, there is a minimum of three
(3) officers in bulletproof vests, with guns on their side and who park their
dark vehicles outside the front of their house. This raises questions with
their neighbours and brings them a lot of negative attention. Finally, Ms. Harkat
asserts that she and her husband have been extremely vigilant in following the
conditions of his release and requests that the conditions be eased so that
their lives may be normalized.
[16]
Ms. Brunette declares that Mr. Harkat has
integrated well into the family and that he has a good relationship with
children and in particular, his niece. She also indicates that the terms and
conditions of Mr. Harkat’s release have made life “intolerable”
for her daughter and her husband. She complains of the CBSA’s monitoring and,
like her daughter, provides the example of when they travelled to Brockville,
Ontario in 2016. According to Ms. Brunette, Mr. Harkat has demonstrated
exemplary behaviour in abiding by the strict conditions which have been imposed
on him. She states that the current conditions of release have made it
difficult for Mr. Harkat to find employment and that he needs to be able
to use a mobile telephone. She adds that her daughter’s health is precarious
and that she must be able to reach her husband at all times. Finally, she
confirms that she is still willing to act as a surety to Mr. Harkat.
[17]
Mr. Parent declares that he has known Mr. Harkat
for over nine (9) years. Mr. Harkat and his wife are currently renting his
property in Ottawa. Mr. Parent is of the view that there is no need for Mr.
Harkat to be monitored by the CBSA when he travels with one of his sureties. He
indicates that it is becoming more difficult to find a payphone or a landline
for Mr. Harkat to make his required daily reporting call to the CBSA. He asks
the Court to relax Mr. Harkat’s conditions of release so that it will make it
easier for all of them to travel out of town. Like Ms. Harkat and her
mother, he also would like to see the conditions of release relaxed so that Mr. Harkat
may find employment. He further believes that Mr. Harkat needs to be able to
use a mobile telephone in order for Ms. Harkat to reach him at all times given
her medical condition. Finally, he confirms his continued willingness to act as
a surety for Mr. Harkat.
[18]
Three (3) of Mr. Harkat’s other sureties,
Jessica Squires, Leonard Bush and Kevin Skerrett also provided sworn statements
supporting the relaxation of Mr. Harkat’s conditions, and specifically in
relation to the use of computers or other communication devices for employment
purposes. They remain committed to being sureties for Mr. Harkat.
[19]
In addition to relying on the foregoing sworn
statements, Mr. Harkat provided many letters from friends, advocates and
members of the public. These letters of support were sent to the MPSEP in
January 2016 after the initiation of the danger opinion process. They advocate
that Mr. Harkat has always respected the terms and conditions of his release
and should be allowed to remain in Canada.
[20]
Mr. Harkat also relies on a psychiatric opinion
dated January 15, 2016, and a subsequent update letter dated August 4, 2017,
prepared by Dr. Colin Cameron, MDCN, FRCPC, Clinical Director of the Integrated
Forensic Program – Secure Treatment Unit of the Royal Ottawa Health Care Group.
The 2016 medical assessment is addressed to the MPSEP and was prepared in the
context of assisting the MPSEP to determine whether Mr. Harkat should be
granted a ministerial exemption to overcome his inadmissibility. It contains a
psychiatric opinion on the mental health of Mr. Harkat, his psychological
profile and any risk he may pose to Canadian society in terms of violence or
other antisocial behaviour.
[21]
Dr. Cameron explains that he assessed Mr. Harkat
on the basis of a number of forensic tests that gage the potential for future
misconduct. While he acknowledges the absence of tools designed to specifically
assess the risk of engaging in or actively supporting terrorist acts or
activities, he is of the view that the tools applied to assess risk generally
can nevertheless be used. It is Dr. Cameron’s assessment, based on the results
of those tests and over a hundred hours spent with Mr. Harkat, that Mr. Harkat
has no identifiable psychopathic traits and is considered to be at very low
risk for violence or crime generally. He finds that the only risk items flagged
in the assessments were those associated with Mr. Harkat’s legal situation,
employment and mental health problems as well as prior incarceration. He is
also of the view that it is extremely unlikely that Mr. Harkat would engage in
or support terrorism and that the status quo remains very detrimental to Mr.
Harkat’s mental health and prevents him from becoming a productive member of
society.
[22]
Finally, Mr. Harkat’s application record also
contains four (4) redacted risk assessments prepared by the CBSA’s Intelligence
Risk Assessment and Analysis Division, Intelligence Directorate (May 2009,
January 2012, September 2014 and October 2016), recent news reports regarding a
$35 million lawsuit by five (5) employees of the Canadian Security Intelligence
Service [CSIS], correspondence between Mr. Harkat’s counsel and the CBSA and
copy of a September 23, 2009 public summary of the threat assessment conducted
by the CSIS concerning Mr. Harkat.
[23]
In support of their response, the Ministers
filed an affidavit by the Acting Manager for Inland Enforcement for the CBSA
Northern Ontario Region, Michel Renaud. He states that his role is to make sure
that Mr. Harkat complies with all his conditions of release by assigning
officers to monitor him. He further indicates that the monitoring of Mr.
Harkat’s terms and conditions has been proceeding smoothly since his last review
in October 2014 and there have been no breaches of the terms and conditions.
The CBSA’s last risk assessment was completed in 2016 and concludes that the
risks are neutralized by Mr. Harkat’s compliance with the existing terms and
conditions. However, concerns remain regarding risks of non-compliance if the
degree of monitoring is relaxed as there will be more opportunities for Mr.
Harkat to engage in non-compliance. Mr. Renaud explains that the danger process
is underway. On August 28, 2015, Mr. Harkat received a modified notice of
intention to seek a danger opinion pursuant to paragraph 115(2)(b) of
the IRPA and, on March 31, 2017, his case was assigned to a senior decision
maker for consideration.
[24]
While there have been no breaches since Mr.
Harkat’s last review, the CBSA continues to have a number of concerns with
respect to Mr. Harkat’s use of computer technology. For instance, under the
current conditions of release, Mr. Harkat is required to make his computer
available for inspection to the CBSA, at a time to be decided by the CBSA
without notice. The conditions also include that Ms. Harkat may have access to
any communication technology that she requires providing she does not allow Mr.
Harkat access to it. In September 2016, when the CBSA officers attended Mr.
Harkat’s home to pick up his computer for inspection, the officers noted the
proximity of Mr. Harkat’s computer to Ms. Harkat’s computer. There was also a
mix up in a USB key given to the CBSA. Later, in August 2017, the CBSA officers
noted that Ms. Harkat’s monitor was left unattended while open to a
Facebook page. At the same time, Mr. Harkat’s monitor was not turned on
and his keyboard and mouse were absent. The same month, the CBSA officers noted
that Mr. Harkat had obtained a solid state drive for his computer which raises
concerns regarding the evidentiary value of the data imaged for inspection.
Furthermore, the use of a tablet does not appear to be feasible at this time as
the CBSA has the same concerns with internet connectivity with a tablet as it
does with a mobile telephone.
[25]
Regarding the use of technology for the purposes
of employment, Mr. Renaud indicates that he is advised that Mr. Harkat has
seriously considered or applied for three (3) potential jobs: courier, school
crossing guard and church custodian. The CBSA advised Mr. Harkat in September
2015 that if he took a position with the courier company, he would possibly be
contravening conditions 4(g) (use of a mobile telephone other than his own), 12
(notice to travel outside the NCR) and 18 (possession of weapons, noxious
substance or explosives) of the order dated May 27, 2015. The CBSA did not have
any concerns regarding the school crossing guard position but has no
information on why Mr. Harkat did not take the job. As for Mr. Harkat’s current
employment as a church custodian, arrangements were made to get around the
requirement that Mr. Harkat have access to a mobile telephone for the purposes
of his employment. Mr. Renaud states that the CBSA believes it can allow Mr.
Harkat to use a computer for employment purposes while at his place of
employment, subject to more information regarding the computer that would be
used and the extent of internal monitoring of work computers by the employer.
[26]
On the issue of reporting, Mr. Renaud indicates
that telephone reporting is not available in the NCR. The CBSA would be willing
to provide some flexibility by allowing Mr. Harkat to change the date of his
reporting providing he gives a forty-eight (48) hour notice to the CBSA. The
CBSA is also prepared to reduce in person reporting to once per month.
[27]
Mr. Renaud acknowledges that he has been one of
the officers conducting the monitoring of Mr. Harkat along with other CBSA
officers. The monitoring is conducted on a regular basis but the frequency and
length vary. He states that it is necessary to occasionally monitor
Mr. Harkat’s travel to ensure compliance with his terms and conditions of
release. The officers try to be discreet but they are required to wear their
protective gear and there are a limited number of vehicles they can use. The
CBSA recognizes that there has been monitoring outside of the NCR during Mr.
and Ms. Harkat’s recent trips to the cottage in the summer of 2017 and to the
funeral of Ms. Harkat’s grandmother in November 2016. He adds, however, that
the CBSA has agreed to review its monitoring process to ensure the proper
balance is maintained between the risks posed by Mr. Harkat and ensuring that
the terms and conditions are respected.
[28]
Mr. Renaud then discusses Mr. Harkat’s use of a
mobile telephone. He indicates that while allowed to use one with specific
conditions, Mr. Harkat has not sought to obtain one due to cost. He further
indicates that the CBSA continues to have concerns about its ability to monitor
a mobile telephone and adds that the CBSA would need to periodically inspect
such a telephone at its premises to ensure compliance with the other terms and
conditions. Because mobile telephones have a smaller amount of data capability
than personal computers, deleted data is more likely to be overwritten by the
telephone’s operating system on a regular basis. The ability to examine
internet usage on a mobile telephone is also more limited than examining
internet usage on a personal computer.
[29]
In addition to the sworn statements and
documentary evidence filed by the parties, the Court also heard testimony from
a number of witnesses. Ms. Harkat, Mr. Parent, Dr. Cameron and Mr. Renaud
testified and for the most part, their testimony was consistent with their
written statements. The Court also heard from Ms. Elizabeth Whitmore
regarding Mr. Harkat’s compliance with his conditions. She testified that she
calls Mr. Harkat four (4) or five (5) times a year for him to come and repair
things at her home. At one point, he indicated to her that he could not fix her
laptop as he could not touch the laptop or have anything to do with it.
[30]
The Court also heard from Mr. Harkat. At the
outset of the hearing, the Ministers requested an adjournment of the hearing on
the basis that counsel for Mr. Harkat only advised that she intended to call
Mr. Harkat as a witness the day before the hearing. Counsel for the Ministers
argued that while Mr. Harkat had the undoubted right to testify in these
proceedings, no affidavit had been adduced by Mr. Harkat. Counsel argued that
it would be unfair to proceed as he was not prepared to cross-examine Mr.
Harkat. Counsel for Mr. Harkat responded that she had not filed supporting
affidavits in other similar cases involving review of conditions of release.
She informed the Court that Mr. Harkat intended to testify about his compliance
with the conditions and the impact of those conditions on him and his wife.
After hearing from both counsel, I informed the parties that I would not be
granting an adjournment as it would be a waste of judicial time and resources.
Given the long-standing involvement of counsel for the Ministers in Mr.
Harkat’s case, and considering the nature of the testimony Mr. Harkat intended
to give, I presented two (2) options to counsel. The first option was to have
Mr. Harkat testify in chief that morning and be cross-examined the following
day. The second option consisted of having Mr. Harkat’s counsel provide the
Ministers’ counsel with a will-say statement by the end of the morning and
having Mr. Harkat testify the next day, both in chief and in cross-examination.
The first option was retained.
[31]
Mr. Harkat testified that his current conditions
of release make it difficult for him to obtain employment as he needs to be
able to use a computer at work as well as a mobile telephone. He spoke of the
places where he has sought employment and explained that while he is expected
to carry a mobile telephone in his current employment, his employer has
accommodated him by letting him use a walkie-talkie. He also testified that he
has not looked for employment in the last two (2) years because of medical
reasons.
[32]
He testified about the difficulties that come
from having to report once a day by telephone when he is travelling and gave
the example of when he and his wife visited his sister-in-law’s cottage.
Because he is required to call in from a landline, he had to drive to town to
make the call from a payphone as there was no telephone at the cottage and he
is not allowed to use someone else’s mobile telephone. All the while, the CBSA
officers were already at the cottage monitoring him. With respect to the
monitoring, Mr. Harkat testified that over the last two (2) years, the CBSA had
been conducting its monitoring every Sunday.
[33]
Mr. Harkat also responded to the CBSA’s concerns
regarding the location of the computers. He indicated that while his computer
has been in the same location since November 2013, the CBSA has never raised
the issue despite coming to his house on numerous occasions to pick up the
computer for inspection. According to Mr. Harkat, the CBSA has inspected his
computer maybe three (3) times in the last two (2) years. As for the missing
mouse and keyboard, Mr. Harkat explained that they were in his bedroom because
he uses the television as the computer’s monitor. He also testified about the
issue of his wife’s unattended monitor. He explained that the last time the
CBSA came without notice to the house, his wife had been on the computer that
morning. When the men arrived, he warned her that the CBSA was there to pick up
the computer. As she was undressed, she left the room and went to the washroom
without turning the computer off.
[34]
Regarding the solid state drive installed in his
computer, Mr. Harkat testified that when his computer stopped working after
being inspected by the CBSA, he was told by the CBSA to have the hard drive
repaired at a local store and that it would pay for the repairs. The CBSA was
given the receipt and did not raise the issue with him.
[35]
Mr. Harkat also believes that the CBSA checks
his emails remotely as he is required, under the terms and conditions of his
release, to provide the CBSA with his passwords. While he would like to have
access to a tablet, he does not want a mobile telephone for personal use
because of roaming concerns and the possible interpretation that he would be in
breach of his conditions.
[36]
Mr. Harkat also testified about how the
conditions have affected his relationships with others. He indicated that he
would prefer that the CBSA not come to his house because people ask questions.
[37]
Finally, Mr. Harkat testified that he does not
have any information relating to the individuals he has been found to be
associated with in the decision on the reasonableness of the certificate nor
does he know how long his case will be before the MPSEP. He will do what Canada
asks him to.
V.
The Legal Framework
[38]
For the purposes of this review, I accept the
legal framework set out by my predecessor in Harkat v Canada (Citizenship
and Immigration), 2014 FC 1034 at paragraph 7 and in Harkat v Canada
(Citizenship and Immigration), 2013 FC 795 at paragraphs 25-27 (see also Charkaoui
#1 at paras 108-109, 119). I must determine whether Mr. Harkat’s release
poses a danger to the security of Canada and if so, whether it can be
neutralized through the imposition of terms and conditions.
[39]
In conducting this exercise, I may consider the
following non-exhaustive list of factors:
a)
the Court’s assessment of danger to the security
of Canada associated with Mr. Harkat in light of all the evidence
presented;
b)
past decisions relating to danger and the
history of the procedures pertaining to reviews of detention, release from
detention with conditions and the decisions made;
c)
the decision, if any, on the reasonableness of
the security certificate;
d)
the uncertain future as to the finality of the
procedures;
e)
the elements of trust and credibility related to
the behaviour of Mr. Harkat after having been released with terms and
conditions and his compliance with them;
f)
the passage of time; and,
g)
the impact of the terms and conditions of
release on Mr. Harkat and his family and the proportionality between the danger
posed by Mr. Harkat and the conditions of release.
(Harkat
v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2013 FC 795 at para 26; Charkaoui
#1 at paras 108-109).
[40]
The burden lies with the Ministers to establish
on the “reasonable grounds to believe” standard
that there is a need to maintain stringent conditions of release (Mahjoub
(Re), 2013 FC 10 at para 14). The Ministers must identify the terms and
conditions and demonstrate that they are proportional to the danger posed (Harkat
v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2013 FC 795 at para 27; Harkat v
Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2014 FC 1034 at para 7).
[41]
I now propose to review each of those factors.
A.
The assessment of the threat to the security of
Canada posed by Mr. Harkat in light of all the evidence presented
[42]
As indicated above, the Ministers have the
burden of establishing that Mr. Harkat poses a danger to national security or
the safety of persons. They must show that the threat is serious, in the sense
that it is grounded on objectively reasonable suspicion based on evidence and
that the threatened harm is substantial and not negligible (Suresh v Canada
(Minister of Citizenship and Immigration), 2002 SCC 1 at para 90; Mahjoub
(Re), 2017 FC 603 at para 49).
[43]
The Ministers acknowledge that the level of
danger that Mr. Harkat poses to the security of Canada has diminished over the
years. However, they contend that the danger has not evaporated, nor have the
findings contained in the decision upholding the security certificate. The
Court found that while the danger associated with Mr. Harkat had diminished
over time, he still posed a danger to the security of Canada (Harkat (Re),
2010 FC 1241 at paras 13, 545). The Ministers argue that the present conditions
continue to be necessary to neutralize this danger.
[44]
The Ministers also rely on a risk assessment
prepared by the CBSA in 2016 which indicates that the degree of risk associated
with non-compliance of the terms and conditions is assessed to be “medium to medium low”. This assessment is based on
the assumption that the current terms are in place.
[45]
Mr. Harkat, on the other hand, submits that
there is no current evidence demonstrating that he is a danger to Canada or to
the safety of any person. He argues that the evidence of danger is dated and
cannot reasonably be relied upon. The last threat assessment conducted by the
CSIS was in 2009 and disclosed no new information about his involvement in
threat-related activities. Moreover, the assessment was based on information
which predated his detention in 2002. As for the CBSA risk assessment upon
which the Ministers rely, it does not address the threat he poses but rather
the risk of non-compliance with the terms and conditions imposed by the Court.
Mr. Harkat further notes that the CBSA has not identified any actual breach
since 2008.
[46]
To support the argument that he does not pose a
danger, Mr. Harkat relies on the advocacy letters contained in his record where
the individuals state that they do not believe he would engage in violence or
contribute to harm others and on the conclusions drawn by Dr. Cameron in
his report dated January 15, 2016.
[47]
In their written submissions, the Ministers
submit that Dr. Cameron’s report cannot be admitted into evidence on the basis
that it does not comply with the Rules of this Court for filing and relying on
expert evidence. However, they conceded at the hearing that Dr. Cameron’s
report could be admitted under section 52.3 of the Rules which creates an
exception where the expert is the treating medical professional and his
evidence is limited to the topics enumerated in the said Rule.
[48]
The Ministers also submit that I should give
less weight to Dr. Cameron’s evidence to the extent his opinion considers the
ultimate questions that I must determine (R v Mohan, [1994] 2 S.C.R. 9 at
paras 21, 24 (QL)) and generally advocates Mr. Harkat’s position.
[49]
I have reviewed Dr. Cameron’s report and
testimony. While I understand he has known Mr. Harkat for a long time and his
psychiatric opinion on Mr. Harkat’s mental health is worth noting, I am
concerned about the line between advocacy and expertise being blurred. When
confronted on cross-examination with a number of contradictions between the
Court’s findings in the 2010 security certificate reasonableness decision and
Mr. Harkat’s version of events upon which the assessment was based, Dr. Cameron
repeatedly attempted to distinguish the Court’s findings with a number of
explanations, including “at the time, 1990 to ’95, the
Taliban were our allies” (Transcript p 211), “one
person’s supporting terrorism is another person’s freedom fighter”
(Transcript p 218) and “in the 1990’s, the Taliban were
our friends” (Transcript p 219). In doing so, Dr. Cameron left me with
the impression that he was advocating on Mr. Harkat’s behalf instead of
providing neutral evidence upon which I could draw my conclusions. Given that
Dr. Cameron’s written opinion was prepared with the intent of persuading the
MPSEP to grant Mr. Harkat a ministerial exemption and that it accepts as fact
elements of Mr. Harkat’s story despite this Court’s findings to the contrary, I
will give the opinion limited weight regarding the risks associated with Mr.
Harkat.
[50]
On the basis of the evidence before me, I find,
like my predecessor, that the danger posed by Mr. Harkat is situated at the
lower end of the spectrum (Harkat v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration),
2014 FC 1034 at paras 9-10; Harkat (Re), 2009 FC 1008 at para 20; Harkat
v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2013 FC 795 at paras 24, 28, 31).
[51]
I am cognizant of the fact that the Ministers
have adduced no new evidence regarding the level of danger posed by Mr. Harkat.
The absence of such evidence clearly weighs in favour of Mr. Harkat. That being
said, I cannot totally discount the findings contained in the decision
upholding the security certificate and previous conditions review decisions.
While the passage of time as well as Mr. Harkat’s overall compliance with the
conditions of release have significantly attenuated the level of danger he
poses, I find that a danger still remains even though it is unclear to me whether
the effectiveness of the conditions of release is responsible for the reduced
threat or whether Mr. Harkat has truly turned a new leaf and abandoned his past
ideologies.
B.
Past decisions relating to danger, the history
of the procedures pertaining to reviews of detention, release from detention
with terms and conditions
[52]
It is not necessary for me to elaborate further
on this factor and rely on the previous decisions of this Court. Overall, the
terms and conditions of release have evolved proportionally with the danger
associated with Mr. Harkat, who has demonstrated compliant behaviour throughout
the years since his release in 2006. This also weighs in favour of
Mr. Harkat.
C.
The decision on the reasonableness of the
certificate, if any
[53]
In the decision upholding the reasonableness of
the security certificate (Harkat (Re), 2010 FC 1241), the Court
concluded as follows:
[548] Having carefully considered the
evidence presented during the public and closed hearings and after having
assessed it on a balance of probabilities, I conclude that the Ministerial
position on almost all the allegations made against Mr. Harkat must be
accepted. I find that Mr. Harkat has engaged in terrorism, that he is a danger
to the security of Canada and that he is a member of the Bin Laden Network
through his past work for the Khattab group and his association with known
terrorists and/or Islamist extremists, such as A. Khadr and Al Shehre. Given
the legal framework of the IRPA and the definitions given herein, the Court
finds that these factual conclusions link Mr. Harkat to the grounds set out in
paragraphs 34(1)(c), (d) and (f) of the IRPA. Therefore, I rule that the certificate
based on these three grounds of security against Mr. Harkat is reasonable.
[54]
I note this decision was ultimately upheld by
the Supreme Court of Canada.
[55]
While not determinative, the grounds upon which
the Court concluded the security certificate was reasonable are among the most
serious grounds of inadmissibility. This factor weighs against Mr. Harkat.
D.
The uncertain future as to the finality of the
proceedings
[56]
Relying on the decision in Charkaoui #1,
this Court found in Harkat v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2013
FC 795 at paragraph 39 that the uncertain future length of the proceedings
favours an open-minded approach towards the relaxation of the terms and
conditions of release.
[57]
It appears from the evidence, at least on a
medium-term basis, that Mr. Harkat’s future is uncertain.
[58]
Although the decision on the reasonableness of
the security certificate became final when it was upheld by the Supreme Court
of Canada in 2014, the removal process remains outstanding. The CBSA has sought
a danger opinion pursuant to paragraph 115(2)(b) of the IRPA whereby the
MPSEP’s delegate will determine whether Mr. Harkat poses a danger to national
security or if the nature and severity of the acts committed reach a serious
level of gravity and if so, whether the risk to Mr. Harkat of deporting him
outweighs the danger. The danger opinion package with Mr. Harkat’s submissions
was provided to Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada for decision on
March 8, 2017, and a senior officer was assigned to the case on March 31, 2017,
for consideration. While the danger opinion process usually takes between
eighteen (18) and twenty-four (24) months, Mr. Renaud believes that it may be
longer in Mr. Harkat’s case given the complexity of his case. Furthermore, if
Mr. Harkat is unsuccessful in the danger opinion process, it is foreseeable
that he is likely to seek judicial review of any future decisions, thus
prolonging the uncertainty with respect to the finality of the proceedings.
E.
The elements of trust and credibility related to
the behaviour of Mr. Harkat after having been released with conditions and his
compliance with them
[59]
In Harkat v Canada (Citizenship and
Immigration), 2013 FC 795, the Court stated that the elements of
trustworthiness and credibility are essential considerations in reviewing the
appropriateness of the terms and conditions of release. It noted that since
2009, Mr. Harkat has complied with all the terms and conditions of his release
and there have been no problems.
[60]
According to Mr. Renaud’s sworn statement, this
continues to be the case (see para 3 of his affidavit), thus enhancing this
Court’s level of trust into Mr. Harkat.
F.
The passage of time
[61]
The most recent CSIS threat assessment was
prepared in 2009 and the Ministers have presented no evidence demonstrating
that Mr. Harkat has been involved in any threat-related activities since that
time. Furthermore, Mr. Harkat has complied with the terms and conditions of his
release since his release in 2006.
[62]
The passage of time, at present, favours the
relaxation of the conditions.
G.
The impact of the conditions of release on Mr.
Harkat and his family and the proportionality between the danger he poses and
the conditions of his release
[63]
The conditions of release must be proportionate
and serve to neutralize the threat posed by Mr. Harkat (Canada (Citizenship
and Immigration) v Mahjoub, 2009 FC 248 at para 65).
[64]
Mr. Harkat submits that the conditions are
excessive and that the CBSA’s monitoring is intrusive and harsh. They have
created tension and stress between the couple, causing them to experience
medical issues over the years. It is also his view that the conditions
prohibiting him from any means of communication make it impossible to find
employment. The conditions have also had an impact on his relationship with his
wife, his family and friends.
[65]
At the hearing, the Ministers conceded that the
conditions have a significant impact on the lives of Mr. Harkat and those
around him. However, they submit that the conditions are proportional to the
threat posed by Mr. Harkat. The absence of new evidence of threat related
activity does not mean that the original rationale for imposing conditions no
longer exists. Moreover, the lack of any incidents related to breaches of the
terms and conditions is an indication that the conditions are working
effectively and are serving to mitigate the risk posed by Mr. Harkat.
[66]
There is no doubt from the evidence put forward
that the conditions imposed by the Court have had an impact on the lives of Mr.
Harkat, his family and friends. While they have been relaxed over the years,
the conditions remain intrusive and seriously restrain their ability to live
their lives freely.
VI.
Review of Conditions
[67]
Having reviewed all of the existing conditions,
I have come to the conclusion that they are disproportionate with the danger
posed by Mr. Harkat and that they should be attenuated. I now propose to
examine the changes and clarifications proposed by the parties.
A.
Cash bond in the amount of $35,000
[68]
Mr. Harkat is requesting that the cash bond of
$35,000 deposited with the Court to secure his release in 2006 be cancelled and
returned. To support his request, he relies on the decision of the Supreme
Court of Canada in R v Antic, 2017 SCC 27 [Antic], which found
that where a monetary condition of release is necessary on bail review and a
satisfactory personal recognizance or recognizance with sureties can be
obtained, a bail review judge cannot impose a cash bond under paragraphs
515(2)(d) and 515(2)(e) of the Criminal Code, 1985 RCS c
C-46.
[69]
The Ministers oppose such a request on the basis
that Mr. Harkat is attempting to improperly import the legal principles and
standards into the immigration security context.
[70]
I agree with the Ministers that the decision in Antic
is inapplicable to this case. This is not a criminal proceeding and the Supreme
Court of Canada avoided directly importing the principles of criminal law in
the security certificate process (Charkaoui v Canada (Citizenship and
Immigration), 2008 SCC 38 at paras 47, 50-53). While the individual’s
fundamental interests of liberty and security may be equally at stake in the
criminal law and security certificate regime, I also note that the review
process under the IRPA contains no restrictions on the type of conditions that
can be ordered by the designated judge. The only limitation is that the
designated judge be satisfied that the conditions imposed are appropriate to
ensure that the person’s release will not be injurious to national security or
endanger the safety or that, if released, the person will appear at a
proceeding or for removal.
[71]
Accordingly, I am satisfied that this Court has
the authority under the security certificate regime to order both the execution
of a cash bond and performance bonds by sureties.
[72]
For the reasons identified in the next paragraphs,
I am not persuaded that the bond should be cancelled.
B.
Sureties
[73]
Eight (8) individuals have executed performance
bonds in varying amounts. The performance bonds will be forfeited to Her
Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada if Mr. Harkat breaches any of the terms
and conditions of his release. Mr. Harkat is requesting that the performance
bonds of Ms. Brunette and Mr. Parent be reduced from $50,000 to $25,000. A
similar request was presented to the Court in 2014 but denied because no
evidence was presented to support such a request (Harkat v Canada
(Citizenship and Immigration), 2014 FC 1034 at para 16).
[74]
Mr. Parent testified that he is now retired and
living on a fixed pension. If he was required to pay the bond, it would create
difficulty for him and he would have to sell some of his assets. Ms. Brunette
did not provide any evidence to justify the reduction of her performance bond.
[75]
The Ministers do not oppose a reduction in the
amount of the performance bonds of both Ms. Brunette and Mr. Parent but suggest
that any reduction should be assessed in light of any other changes made by the
Court to the current terms and conditions of release.
[76]
It is my assessment that the performance bonds
of Ms. Brunette and Mr. Parent can be reduced to $25,000 notwithstanding the
lack of evidence by Ms. Brunette to support the reduction in her case. I am
satisfied that these two (2) reduced amounts, in addition to the $35,000 cash
bond deposited into Court, will encourage Mr. Harkat to continue complying with
his terms and conditions of release. Ms. Brunette and Mr. Parent have been very
supportive of Mr. Harkat over the years and I trust that he will do nothing to
disappoint them and put their savings at risk. The rest of the conditions
provided in condition 3 of Schedule “A” shall
remain the same.
C.
Use of a mobile telephone
[77]
In his written representations Mr. Harkat
requests the use of a SIM card mobile telephone with internet connectivity.
However, he testified at the hearing that he does not want a mobile telephone
because he fears that its use might lead to a breach of his terms and
conditions of release. As an example, he stated that people have explained to
him that when one is driving on Highway 401, roaming from the United States can
occur, which in turn might lead to a misunderstanding with the CBSA regarding
his reporting requirements when travelling outside the NCR. Ms. Harkat also
stated in her testimony that financial reasons are preventing Mr. Harkat
from obtaining a mobile telephone at this time.
[78]
The Ministers oppose Mr. Harkat’s request that
he be allowed to use a mobile telephone with internet connectivity due to the
limited ability to examine internet usage. In essence, they ask that no changes
be made to condition 4 of the terms and conditions with the exception of
certain additions and clarifications.
[79]
Given that Mr. Harkat no longer seeks to have
access to a mobile telephone with internet connectivity, condition 4 will
remain the same, subject to the changes below. The parties can return to Court
when Mr. Harkat is ready to possess a SIM card mobile telephone with internet
connectivity. At that point, I will expect Mr. Harkat to demonstrate why he
requires a mobile telephone with internet connectivity and how he intends to
use it and for what purposes. As for the Ministers, they should be prepared to
adduce evidence demonstrating how the examination of internet usage on a mobile
telephone differs from that of a computer, whether particular models have
greater capacity and what type of supervision would be required to accommodate
the use of a mobile telephone with internet connectivity.
[80]
As for the amendments proposed by the Ministers
in condition 4, I am satisfied that the following conditions should be amended.
[81]
First, condition 4(b) shall be amended to
provide that the mobile telephone may also have voice mail capabilities. The
CBSA shall also be entitled to verify that no other features are enabled on the
telephone before Mr. Harkat may use the mobile telephone.
[82]
Second, condition 4(c) shall be amended to
change the inspection provision given that Mr. Harkat has requested that
the CBSA’s presence at his home be as minimal as possible. The condition will
now read:
4(c) Mr. Harkat shall permit any employee of
the CBSA, or any person designated by it, to periodically inspect the cell
phone at the CBSA’s offices. When the CBSA wishes to inspect the cell phone,
it will contact Mr. Harkat and arrange for Mr. Harkat to deliver the cell phone
to the CBSA offices within 24 hours of being informed of the inspection. The
CBSA will return the cell phone as soon as possible after inspection. Mr.
Harkat will be notified once inspection is complete and informed that he can
attend the CBSA to retrieve the phone. The CBSA shall exercise this
inspection authority reasonably.
[83]
Third, condition 4(q) shall be amended to
reflect the reality that Mr. Harkat has switched from a traditional telephone
line to a VOIP line and shall state that Mr. Harkat may use a VOIP line, on the
condition that the service is installed directly through his internet modem via
an adapter.
[84]
Fourth, a new clause will be added to indicate
that Mr. Harkat shall not store any solicitor-client communications on his mobile
telephone or voice mail.
[85]
Finally, in accordance with condition 4(r), Mr.
Harkat is currently entitled to use any landline telephone for employment
purposes, while at his place of employment. He is not otherwise to use any
other mobile or landline telephone except in the event of an emergency, where
he cannot reasonably access his mobile or landline telephone. If so, he is to
inform the CBSA of such use as soon as practicable and provide the CBSA with
the telephone number and service provider, on consent of the third party.
[86]
Mr. Harkat is requesting the ability to use a
mobile telephone for employment purposes. He and his wife have testified that
the inability to use a mobile telephone is restrictive and has thus far
prevented him from obtaining full-time employment with a courier company.
[87]
Mr. Harkat has not persuaded me that the
prohibition from using an employer provided mobile telephone for employment
purposes is the cause of his inability to obtain full-time employment. Not all
employers require their employees to use a mobile telephone. Nevertheless, I am
prepared to relax this condition providing the employer provided mobile
telephone does not have internet connectivity. To the extent Mr. Harkat is
required to have a mobile telephone for employment purposes, Mr. Harkat will be
required to provide a written undertaking that the mobile telephone will be
used for employment purposes only and any unauthorized use will result in a
breach of conditions. Mr. Harkat will also be required to advise his
employer of this condition and ask his employer to report any unauthorized use
to the CBSA. Mr. Harkat will provide the employer with the name and number of
the contact person at the CBSA and provide the CBSA with the name and number of
his work supervisor.
[88]
Regarding Mr. Harkat’s prohibition to use any
other mobile telephone or landline telephone except in the event of an
emergency, I am prepared to allow another exception. Mr. Harkat shall be
entitled to use another mobile telephone or landline telephone when he is
travelling and required to report to the CBSA. In the event he uses another
telephone, be it mobile or landline, Mr. Harkat will be required to inform the
CBSA as soon as possible of the telephone number and service provider on
consent of the third party.
[89]
On a final note, while I understand Mr. Harkat
has concerns with respect to breaching his terms and conditions, it is my view
that the possession of a mobile telephone under the present conditions could
address some of the other concerns raised in evidence. Ms. Harkat,
Ms. Brunette and Mr. Parent have all indicated that Mr. Harkat should be
able to have a mobile telephone so that Ms. Harkat is able to reach him if
needed, whether at work or elsewhere. The possession of a mobile telephone
would certainly address this need. Internet connectivity is not required for
such purpose. I also believe that if Mr. Harkat had his own mobile telephone,
it would avoid him having to obtain the third party’s consent to disclose to
the CBSA that person’s name and service provider when using another mobile or
landline telephone for emergency purposes.
D.
Computers
[90]
In addition to the use of a home computer with
internet connectivity, Mr. Harkat requests that he be permitted to possess and
use a laptop computer or tablet with internet connectivity. He is also seeking
the ability to use them outside his home.
[91]
The Ministers have agreed to the use of a laptop
in the home as it appears from the preamble of condition 7 and conditions 7(e),
7(h), 7(j) and 7(k) of the proposed conditions found in Exhibit E of Mr.
Renaud’s affidavit. As a result, the conditions shall be amended accordingly.
[92]
The Ministers object, however, to the use of a
tablet on the basis that it possesses
cellular capabilities and because monitoring
and inspection issues arose during
testing. They also object to Mr. Harkat’s request to use the laptop and
tablet with internet connectivity outside his home because the CBSA would not
be able to monitor and ensure that Mr. Harkat is not engaging in unauthorized
or improper communications.
[93]
I am unable to grant Mr. Harkat’s request to
possess a tablet at this time without more evidence on Mr. Harkat’s need for
such a device, the type of device he is seeking to possess and how the CBSA can
monitor the device to ensure that Mr. Harkat is complying with his terms and
conditions of release. Mr. Harkat is already authorized to possess a computer
and laptop with internet connectivity in his home. In the event Mr. Harkat
wishes to pursue his request to use a tablet in his home, he shall provide the
specific details of the device to the CBSA, who in turn shall determine whether
the request can be accommodated. If the parties are unable to agree, they may
come to the Court for a determination. Mr. Harkat should be prepared to
demonstrate why he requires the use of a tablet and to provide the specific
details of the device. In turn, the CBSA should be prepared to demonstrate in
sufficient detail why Mr. Harkat’s request cannot be accommodated. The same
reasoning applies to Mr. Harkat’s use of a tablet or laptop outside of his
home.
[94]
The Ministers request the addition of a
provision stipulating that “Mr. Harkat’s desktop
computer and laptop computer may not contain a solid state drive (SSD), flash
SSD, hybrid drive or flash storage devices”. They state in their
memorandum that the “advancement and changes in
technology have made some technical requirements to the computer specifications
necessary to maintain effective monitoring of Mr. Harkat’s computer use”.
When asked to further explain the CBSA’s concerns regarding the use of a solid
state drive, Mr. Renaud was not able to do so. In the absence of any additional
evidence explaining why this condition must now be added, I am not prepared to
include it to Mr. Harkat’s terms and conditions.
[95]
The Ministers also seek an amendment to condition
7(a) on the basis that it will “increase the speed and
functioning of any computer technology used by Mr. Harkat”. As it
stands, Mr. Harkat is not entitled to alter or delete any tracking
information from his computer. The amendment sought would allow him to do so
with the prior consent of the CBSA. I am persuaded that this amendment is
justified.
[96]
Mr. Harkat requests a change to the computer
inspection procedures whereby the CBSA would be required to obtain the Court’s
approval and have justifiable reason to believe that he is not complying with
the terms and conditions of his release.
[97]
Under the current conditions 7(d) and 7(e), Mr.
Harkat must make his computer available to the CBSA every month at a time to be
decided each month by the CBSA, without notice, so that it may be accessed by
the CBSA for inspection at its offices. At any other time, with justification,
the CBSA may ask a designated judge for access to Mr. Harkat’s computer without
notice, for the purpose of ensuring that he and other persons are complying
with the terms and conditions of release.
[98]
The Ministers have agreed to reduce the
frequency at which they inspect Mr. Harkat’s computer. Instead of every month,
it would now be no more than every three (3) months. The Ministers object
however to the balance of Mr. Harkat’s request on the basis that it would deny
them the ability to monitor Mr. Harkat’s computer without evidence of a breach.
They argue that Mr. Harkat is essentially asking the Ministers and the
Court to simply trust that he is not violating the terms and conditions of his
release. To support their position, the Ministers refer to the issues raised
when they attended Mr. Harkat’s home in September 2016 and August 2017
regarding the proximity of the computers, the missing keyboard and mouse and
Ms. Harkat’s unattended computer.
[99]
I am not prepared to grant Mr. Harkat’s request.
While the danger he poses is situated at the low end of the spectrum, I am
satisfied that the threat of danger still exists. Threat-related activity may
be conducted online and I agree with the Ministers that their inability to
inspect Mr. Harkat’s computer without notice would make it practically
impossible for the CBSA to know whether he is compliant with the conditions of
his release regarding the use of the computer. Without access to his computer,
it would be difficult to meet the “justifiable reason”
threshold proposed by Mr. Harkat.
[100] In addition to requesting the ability to use a mobile telephone in
the course of employment, Mr. Harkat is also seeking this Court’s approval to
possess and use computer technology for employment purposes, if required to do
so by his employer. His evidence as well as that of his wife, Ms. Brunette
and Mr. Parent is that the restrictions regarding the use of technology for
employment purposes have made it difficult for Mr. Harkat to find full-time
employment. Ms. Harkat testified that Mr. Harkat cannot even operate a
cash machine without being in breach of his conditions because internet
connectivity is required.
[101] While the Ministers are amenable to relaxing this condition, they oppose
the request to a “blanket approval” due to the
possibility of unmonitored and anonymous communications. They suggest that each
request be dealt with on an individual basis and agree that approval should not
be unreasonably withheld.
[102] Examples were provided of the type of employment Mr. Harkat has
considered in the past but could not entertain because of the requirement to
use computer technology. However, Mr. Harkat also testified that he has not
sought other employment in the last two (2) years for medical reasons, with the
exception of the courier job, school crossing guard and his current employment
as a church custodian. At this time, there is no evidence of prospective
employment either.
[103] I understand that the inability to use computer technology for
employment purposes, including the internet, can be restrictive. I can think of
very few types of employment which require no form of technology or the
internet. I also believe that frustration can result from one’s inability to
seek gainful employment. It can affect a person’s self-worth, which in turn can
lead to other issues and problems. It was Dr. Cameron’s opinion that one of the
risk items flagged in his assessment of Mr. Harkat related to his employment
problems.
[104] Since his release in 2006, Mr. Harkat has complied with his
conditions of release. If he is to fully embrace the values of his adopted
country, it is important that he be given the opportunity to obtain gainful
employment. Accordingly, I am inclined to allow Mr. Harkat the right to use computer
technology, including the internet, for employment purposes but with certain
limitations. The parties shall work together to identify in advance the types
of technologies Mr. Harkat can use. Then, when Mr. Harkat is contemplating
employment, he shall inform the CBSA of the name of his prospective employer,
the duties he will be required to perform, the technology he will be required
to use and have access to in the course of his employment, including the
internet, the use he will make of it, and the number of hours a week he will be
required to use it. Upon notification by Mr. Harkat, the CBSA shall consider
Mr. Harkat’s prospective employment without delay and respond to him in a
diligent and expeditious manner. If the parties are unable to reach a
consensus, they may come to the Court for a determination. In all cases, Mr.
Harkat will be required to sign an undertaking that any use of the technology
or the internet will be for employment purposes only and any unauthorized use
shall constitute a breach of his conditions. Mr. Harkat will also be required
to advise his employer of this condition and ask his employer to report any
unauthorized use to the CBSA. Mr. Harkat will provide the employer with the
name and number of the contact person at the CBSA and provide the CBSA with the
name and number of his work supervisor.
[105] Finally, both parties agree to the inclusion of a provision
stipulating that Mr. Harkat is otherwise not permitted to use any other
computer or laptop than those he is permitted to possess or use by this order.
This is acceptable.
E.
Ms. Harkat’s use of computer technology
[106] Under condition 8 of the current conditions, Ms. Harkat may have
access to any computer technology that she requires as long as she does not
allow Mr. Harkat access to it. Mr. Harkat seeks the cancellation of this
condition. The Ministers, on the other hand, are seeking to amend the condition
so that Ms. Harkat will be required to password protect her technology and lock
any device not currently in her presence. The condition would also be amended
to provide that Mr. Harkat may not have access to the passwords used by
Ms. Harkat.
[107] While I consider the condition to be necessary as Ms. Harkat’s
computer technology is not subject to inspection, I agree with Mr. Harkat’s
counsel that the amendment proposed by the Ministers is not required. Ms.
Harkat knows that Mr. Harkat cannot have access to any computer technology she
may own. She is also fully aware of the serious consequences that may result
from the failure to comply with this condition.
F.
Residence
[108] Mr. Harkat does not dispute his obligation to reside at a certain
location with his wife or the requirement to inform the Court, the Ministers
and the CBSA of any change of address at least seventy-two (72) hours prior to
the change taking effect as per conditions 9 and 10 of Schedule “A”. However, he seeks the removal of the condition
prohibiting other persons from occupying the residence without the approval of
the CBSA. The Ministers agree to waive the requirement that Mr. Harkat obtain
the CBSA’s consent and propose that Mr. Harkat only be required to notify the
CBSA of any other persons occupying the residence. I find the Ministers’
proposal to be reasonable as the CBSA certainly has an interest in knowing the
identity of the people with whom Mr. Harkat is sharing his residence.
[109] Mr. Harkat is also seeking a modification to the CBSA’s ability to
enter the residence for the purpose of ensuring Mr. Harkat or any other person
are complying with the terms and conditions of release. Under condition 14 of the
current terms and conditions, the CBSA is required to obtain judicial
authorization before it may access Mr. Harkat’s residence for the purposes of
ensuring that Mr. Harkat and any other persons in the residence are complying
with the terms and conditions of release.
[110] Mr. Harkat is requesting that such entry be authorized by a
designated judge only where the CBSA has “justifiable
reason to believe” that he is not complying with his terms and
conditions of release or it is necessary for the purpose of ensuring the
protection of national security and or the safety of any person. He is also
seeking the removal of the requirement that all other occupants of the
residence sign a document, in a form acceptable to counsel for the Ministers,
agreeing to abide with the terms and conditions of release and that any new
occupant similarly agree to abide by these terms prior to occupying the
residence.
[111] The Ministers agree in part with the proposed amendment with an
exception for accessing the residence to inspect the computer and with respect
to the threshold required to obtain judicial authorization. Instead of “justifiable reason to believe”, the Ministers opine
that the threshold of “reasonable grounds to believe”
should be applied. It is also the Ministers’ position that other residents
should be required to sign a document stating that they will abide by the terms
and conditions to avoid any unnecessary issues or unintentional contravention
of the Court’s order.
[112] I recognize that Mr. and Ms. Harkat have reservations regarding the
CBSA attending their home. Their evidence was that when the CBSA officers show
up at their home, they enter the residence and go to the second floor where Mr.
Harkat’s computer is located. The last time the CBSA officers attended the Harkat’s
home unannounced, Ms. Harkat was not dressed. The CBSA officers also look like
police officers, which raises questions with the neighbours who are unaware of
Mr. Harkat’s circumstances. I can understand that this might be overwhelming
and intrusive for the Harkats.
[113] However, I consider the Ministers’ proposal to be reasonable. With
the exception of accessing the residence to inspect Mr. Harkat’s computer,
which I have examined earlier, any other entry will have to be authorized by a
designated judge and the CBSA will be required to demonstrate that it has
reasonable grounds to believe that Mr. Harkat is not complying with his terms
and conditions of release. The requirement to seek judicial authorization will
ensure that the privacy rights of Mr. Harkat and others occupying the residence
are safeguarded and that any entry is minimally intrusive. It will also avoid
situations such as the one which led to the decision of this Court in Harkat
(Re), 2009 FC 659.
[114] Nevertheless, I am prepared to direct that the CBSA officers not be
allowed to circulate in Mr. Harkat’s house when they come to pick up his
computer. They will ask Mr. Harkat to get his computer for them. Additionally,
the CBSA and Mr. Harkat shall agree on the timeframe within which the CBSA may
come unannounced to Mr. Harkat’s home to pick up the computer, if this is not
already the case.
G.
Reporting
[115] Under condition 11 of the current terms and conditions of release,
Mr. Harkat is required to report in person once every two (2) weeks to the CBSA
on a day and at a time as determined by a representative of the CBSA. Mr.
Harkat seeks to amend this condition so that he will only be required to report
to the CBSA once a month by telephone through voice verification. To the extent
his request is not possible, Mr. Harkat recommends that his reporting
requirement be once every three (3) months.
[116] The Ministers are open to relaxing Mr. Harkat’s reporting
requirements but argue that CBSA’s flexibility on reporting times is somewhat
limited. Telephone reporting is not available in the NCR nor is it open to
persons with security and inadmissibility concerns. They also reject his
request for quarterly reporting but agree to monthly reporting.
[117] As telephone reporting is not available, I consider reporting in
person once a month to be appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances of
this case. I also agree with the parties that reporting requirements may
hereafter be reduced by the CBSA without seeking the permission of the Court.
H.
Travel outside the NCR
[118] Mr. Harkat is seeking the cancellation of all requirements of
condition 12 that he notify the CBSA when travelling outside the NCR and that
it be replaced by the requirement that he remain in Canada. The Ministers
oppose this request on the basis that it would greatly hamper the ability of
the CBSA to monitor Mr. Harkat or know his location while outside of the NCR.
They propose an amendment that would facilitate the ability of Mr. Harkat to
take day trips anywhere in Ontario or Quebec without advising the CBSA
providing it is for a period of twenty-four (24) hours or less. If the travel
outside of the NCR exceeds the twenty-four (24) hours, it would remain subject
to the same conditions.
[119] I commend the Ministers for proposing that Mr. Harkat be given the
flexibility to take day trips anywhere in Ontario and Quebec without having to
advise the CBSA. However, they have not demonstrated how providing a longer
period than twenty-four (24) hours will hamper the CBSA’s ability to monitor
him while he is outside the NCR. To the extent he is allowed to travel anywhere
in Ontario and Quebec for twenty-four (24) hours without notice, the CBSA’s
ability to monitor Mr. Harkat will be the same regardless of whether he is gone
for twenty-four (24) hours or for seventy-two (72) hours.
[120] Accordingly, I am inclined to expand the window of opportunity for
Mr. Harkat to travel anywhere in Ontario and Quebec without having to notify
the CBSA. In my view, a window of seventy-two (72) hours is both proportionate
and reasonable given Mr. Harkat’s past compliance with his conditions and the
minimal risk associated with relaxing this condition. This will give Mr. Harkat
and his family more flexibility in their outings by allowing them to visit
friends and family on long weekends without the stress of having to report
daily to the CBSA when there are no telephones readily available such as when
they visited the cottage of Ms. Harkat’s sister. While it may not prevent the
CBSA from monitoring them, it will at least eliminate the burden that comes
from having to report daily.
[121] If Mr. Harkat wishes to travel for a period exceeding seventy-two
(72) hours or if he wishes to travel outside of Ontario and Quebec, he shall
continue to be bound by the conditions as they are found in condition 12 of the
current terms and conditions of release with the exception of condition 12(e)
which will be amended to provide that Mr. Harkat will only be required to
report when he arrives at destination and when he departs.
I.
Physical surveillance by the CBSA
[122] I accept that monitoring is necessary to ensure that Mr. Harkat is
complying with the terms and conditions of his release. Mr. Harkat’s level of
privacy is dependent on the risk he poses. It is one of those unfortunate
consequences of being the subject of a security certificate. That being said, I
have concerns in the present circumstances regarding the degree of
intrusiveness of the physical surveillance being conducted and the absence of
any framework to review and ensure that any physical surveillance is conducted
in the least intrusive manner possible.
[123] In describing the way in which the terms and conditions of Mr.
Harkat’s release have affected their lives, Ms. Harkat gave a number of
examples of the manner in which the CBSA carries out its mandate of ensuring
that Mr. Harkat is compliant. For instance, when Ms. Harkat’s grandmother
passed away before the holidays, the CBSA escorted them out of town to attend
the funeral despite the fact there were three (3) of Mr. Harkat’s sureties with
him and the trip had been pre-approved. Ms. Harkat stated that she is not one
hundred percent certain if they were at the funeral but she saw them leave with
them on the trip. However, she is certain that the CBSA sent two (2) cars and
four (4) CBSA officers in uniforms to her grandfather’s funeral before that.
[124] Ms. Harkat also testified about the CBSA’s presence when she and her
husband attended a friend’s wedding in Toronto. She indicated that when they
got to the hotel in Toronto, there was a “crew”
waiting for them and the CBSA officers followed them to and from the wedding
and were with them the entire time they were in Toronto.
[125] I share the Harkats’ view that this level of intrusiveness may not
be necessary in all circumstances given Mr. Harkat’s other terms and
conditions. One of those circumstances would be when Mr. Harkat is accompanied
by either of his sureties, Mr. Parent and Ms. Brunette. The value of their
performance bonds is sufficiently important to create an incentive for them to
ensure that Mr. Harkat abides by his terms and conditions of release.
[126] It also appears from the evidence that on average, with the
exception of the trips out of the NCR, the CBSA conducts its surveillance on
Sundays. The CBSA officers park their cars outside Mr. Harkat’s home and wait
for him to leave his residence. If he stays home, the CBSA officers can be
parked outside his home for an extended period of time, thus raising questions
with Mr. Harkat’s neighbours who may not be aware of his personal circumstances
and who may not be able to differentiate between a CBSA officer and a police
officer. Given the predictability of the surveillance, I question its efficacy
and necessity.
[127] Furthermore, Mr. Renaud testified on cross-examination, that when
physical surveillance is conducted, the CBSA officers are only instructed to
ensure Mr. Harkat is compliant with his conditions of release. He also
indicated that the CBSA does not hold any meetings to review whether physical
surveillance is required and the level of monitoring that is necessary.
[128] I consider this to be unreasonable. The CBSA officers should be
provided better guidance on when physical surveillance is conducted and the
manner in which it should be done. There should also be a periodic review of
the appropriateness of the monitoring measures in place.
[129] I note that the CBSA has agreed to review its monitoring process to
ensure that the proper balance is maintained between the risk posed by Mr.
Harkat and ensuring that the terms and conditions are being respected. I
strongly urge the CBSA to adopt a monitoring process devoid of arbitrariness
which ensures proportionality, guidance and periodic reviews.
[130] In any event, I consider that any surveillance that is carried out
should be conducted in the least intrusive manner possible and should not be
disproportionate with the danger posed by Mr. Harkat. Mr. Harkat’s current
terms and conditions of release shall be amended accordingly given that they do
not explicitly address the issue of monitoring.
J.
Attendance at Court hearings and proceedings
under the IRPA
[131] Mr. Harkat is currently required to appear at all Court hearings and
any proceeding or process under the IRPA as per condition 17. He is requesting
that his obligation to appear be limited to those situations where his presence
is required. The Ministers agree with the proposed amendment.
[132] I consider this to be reasonable.
K.
All other terms and conditions
[133] The remaining terms and conditions shall remain unchanged.
VII.
Conclusion
[134] On the basis of the foregoing reasons, I conclude that in addition
to the remaining terms and conditions of release, the adjustments discussed
above are sufficient to neutralize the danger Mr. Harkat presents and are
proportional to the risk he poses.
[135] Following receipt of these reasons, the Ministers shall have ten
(10) days to draft the new terms and conditions of Mr. Harkat’s release from
detention consistent with the determinations made herein and submit them to Mr.
Harkat’s counsel for approval. If the parties are unable to agree on the
wording of the draft revised terms and conditions, they may report back to the
Court for a determination. Once approved by the parties and the Court, the new
terms and conditions shall become a schedule to an order to be issued by the
Court at a later date. The terms and conditions will take effect on the signing
of the order to amend the terms and conditions of Mr. Harkat’s release
from detention. The Ministers will immediately take whatever steps are
necessary to give effect to the new terms and conditions.
VIII.
Questions for Certification
[136] Pursuant to section 82.3 of the IRPA, an appeal of a decision made
under subsection 82(4) may be brought to the Federal Court of Appeal only if
the judge certifies that a serious question of general importance is involved
and states the question.
[137] To be certified, a question must transcend the interests of the
parties to the litigation, must be of broad significance, and must be
dispositive of the appeal (Canada (Minister of Citizenship and Immigration)
v Liyanagamage, [1994] FCJ No 1637, 176 NR 4 (CA) (QL) at paras 4-6; Zhang
v Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2013 FCA 168 at paras 7-10; Canada
(Minister of Citizenship and Immigration) v Zazai, 2004 FCA 89 at paras
11-12; see also Mahjoub (Re), 2017 FC 334 at paras 8-14).
[138] Mr. Harkat’s counsel suggested a number of questions for
certification in the event the Court concluded that it is not the
responsibility of the Ministers to justify the case for a danger finding after
the passage of many years since the last evidence of danger was presented or,
if the Court found that compliance with the conditions of release is an
indication that they work, not an indication of a reduced threat.
[139] As I have made no such findings, the questions proposed by Mr.
Harkat’s counsel are inappropriate for certification. Accordingly, no question
will be certified.
“Sylvie E. Roussel”
Ottawa, Ontario
January 23, 2018
SCHEDULE “A”
Terms
and Conditions of Release pursuant to
the
Order of Justice Simon Noël dated May 27, 2015
1.
Mr. Harkat is to be released from incarceration
on terms that he sign a document, to be prepared by his counsel and to be
approved by counsel for the Ministers, in which he agrees to comply strictly
with each of the following terms and conditions.
Sureties
2.
Prior to Mr. Harkat's release from
incarceration, the sum of $35,000.00 is to be paid into Court pursuant to Rule
149 of the Federal Courts Rules. In the event that any term of the Order
releasing Mr. Harkat is breached, an Order may be sought by the Ministers that
the full amount, plus any accrued interest, be paid to the Attorney General of
Canada.
3.
Prior to Mr. Harkat's release from
incarceration, the following eight individuals shall execute performance bonds
by which they agree to be bound to Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada in
the amounts specified below. The condition of each performance bond shall be
that if Mr. Harkat breaches any terms or conditions contained in the Order of
release, as it may from time to time be amended, the sums guaranteed by the
performance bonds shall be forfeited to Her Majesty. The terms and conditions of
the performance bonds shall be provided to counsel for Mr. Harkat by counsel
for the Ministers and shall be in accordance with the terms and conditions of
guarantees provided pursuant to section 56 of the Immigration and Refugee
Protection Act. Each surety shall acknowledge in writing having reviewed
the terms and conditions contained in this Order.
a) Pierrette Brunette $50,000.00
b) Sophie Harkat $ 5,000.00
c) Kevin Skerrett $ 10,000.00
d) Leonard Bush $ 10,000.00
e) Jessica Squires $ 1,500.00
f)
Josephine Wood $
1,500.00
g) William Baldwin $ 5,000.00
h) Philippe Parent $ 50,000.00
Telephone
4.
Mr. Harkat may use one (1) mobile telephone,
subject to the following conditions:
a) Mr. Harkat may obtain a SIM Card mobile telephone based on a make
and model number previously approved by CBSA;
b) The telephone must only have the capacity of receiving and making
voice calls and text messages. The CBSA must verify that no other features are
enabled before Mr. Harkat may use the mobile telephone, including voicemail;
c) Mr. Harkat shall permit any employee of the CBSA, or any person
designated by it, to periodically inspect the cell phone at the CBSA’s office.
The CBSA will return the cell phone to Mr. Harkat as soon as possible. CBSA
shall exercise this inspection authority reasonably;
d) Mr. Harkat shall provide the cell phone number to the CBSA;
e) Upon request, Mr. Harkat shall provide the CBSA with all passwords required
to access any part of the cell phone;
f)
Mr. Harkat will permit the CBSA to place a seal
over the SIM card once activated and inserted into the cell phone. Mr. Harkat
shall not use any SIM card in the cell phone other than that which is
associated with his monitored account;
g) Mr. Harkat shall not use any internet features on his cell phone.
Internet data shall be blocked through the cell phone provider. For greater
certainty, this includes no use of web browsing or email functions and no use
or installation of any applications. Mr. Harkat shall make best efforts to
ensure that any wi-fi function remains turned off. If, despite Mr. Harkat’s
best efforts, the wi-fi function becomes enabled, Mr. Harkat must immediately
notify the CBSA;
h) Mr. Harkat agrees to pay the service provider a fee if necessary to
include data blocking;
i)
Mr. Harkat may not use any applications that
come pre-installed on the cell phone without the prior approval of the CBSA,
such approval not to be unreasonably withheld;
j)
Mr. Harkat shall not use any external memory
devices with his cell phone. If Mr. Harkat’s cell phone has a memory expansion
slot, Mr. Harkat shall permit the CBSA to place a seal over the slot;
k) If Mr. Harkat’s cell phone has near field exchange (NFC) and/or
S-Beam functions, Mr. Harkat shall make best efforts to ensure that these
functions remain turned off. If, despite Mr. Harkat’s best efforts, any of the
NFC or S-Beam functions become enabled, Mr. Harkat must immediately notify the
CBSA;
l)
If Mr. Harkat’s cell phone has a screen
mirroring function, Mr. Harkat shall make best efforts to ensure that this
function remains turned off. If, despite Mr. Harkat’s best efforts, the screen
mirroring function becomes enabled, Mr. Harkat must immediately notify the
CBSA;
m) Mr. Harkat shall not update the cell phone’s firmware or operating
system without prior approval from the CBSA. For further clarification, Mr.
Harkat shall also make best efforts to ensure that any software auto-update
feature is turned off. If, despite Mr. Harkat’s best efforts, the auto-update
function becomes enabled, Mr. Harkat must immediately notify the CBSA;
n) Mr. Harkat shall not permit any other person to use his cell phone;
o) The CBSA (or any person designated by it) may obtain and monitor the
toll records of voice calls and text messages from the service provider. Mr.
Harkat shall consent to the CBSA (or any person designated by it) obtaining
these records from the service provider. Mr. Harkat’s possession of a mobile
telephone is subject to the CBSA’s ability to obtain such toll records from the
service provider. If necessary, Mr. Harkat shall provide his consent to the CBSA
obtaining any Court Order that may be required in order to obtain these
records;
p) Mr. Harkat agrees not to use the call forward features of the mobile
telephone, that is, he will not forward the telephone to any line, including
his home telephone line;
q) Mr. Harkat may change his home telephone from a traditional land
line to a VOIP line, on the condition that the service is installed directly
through his internet modem via an adapter;
r) Mr. Harkat may use any landline telephone for employment purposes,
while at his place of employment. Mr. Harkat is otherwise not to use any other
mobile or landline telephone except in the event of an emergency, where he
cannot reasonably access his mobile or landline telephone. He is to inform the
CBSA of the use of a mobile or landline telephone, other than his own, as soon as
reasonably practicable and to provide the CBSA with the telephone number and
service provider, on consent of the third party.
5.
Mr. or Mrs. Harkat may possess a fax machine.
6.
Mrs. Harkat may have access to any other
communication technology that she requires as long as she does not allow Mr.
Harkat access to it.
Computer
7.
Mr. Harkat shall have access to one (1) desktop
computer with internet access at his residence, subject to the following
conditions:
a) Mr. Harkat, or anyone on his behalf, shall not alter or delete from
his computer any tracking information, including, but not limited to internet
browsing history; cookies; sent, received or draft electronic mail; records of
communication using Skype or any other application or website that provides
such service; records of any activity on social media websites, including, but
not limited to, websites such as Facebook or Twitter;
b) Mr. Harkat shall not use the private browsing feature of any
internet browser application, including, but not limited to, Internet Explorer,
Chrome, or Firefox. Mr. Harkat may only delete tracking information on consent
of the CBSA, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld and be dealt with
expeditiously following a request from Mr. Harkat;
c) Mr. Harkat shall not use encryption software and must provide the
CBSA with any passwords necessary to access any part of the computer;
d) Mr. Harkat shall make the computer (including the hard drive(s), RAM
and any peripheral memory), available every month at a time to be decided each
month by the CBSA, without notice, so that it can be accessed by CBSA for
inspection at its office, for the purpose of ensuring that Mr. Harkat and/or
any other persons are complying with the terms and conditions of this Order.
For greater certainty, the CBSA may attend at Mr. Harkat’s home to request that
he make the computer available;
e) At any other time, with justification, the CBSA may ask a designated
judge for access to Mr. Harkat’s computer without notice, for the purpose of
ensuring that Mr. Harkat and/or any other persons are complying with the terms
and conditions of this order;
f)
Mr. Harkat may not store on his computer any
material over which he may claim solicitor-client or litigation privilege;
g) Mrs. Harkat shall not use Mr. Harkat’s computer;
h) Mr. Harkat is permitted to be in the vicinity of, and view, computer
screens present in retail establishments so long as: (i) Mr. Harkat is not
operating or controlling said computer; (ii) Mr. Harkat is not directing someone
to take actions on the computer on his behalf.
8.
Mrs. Harkat may have access to any computer
technology that she requires as long as she does not allow Mr. Harkat access to
it.
Residence, reporting and travel
9.
Mr. Harkat shall reside at, _______________ in
the City of Ottawa, Ontario (residence) with Sophie Harkat. In order to protect
the privacy of those individuals, the address of the residence shall not be
published within the public record of this proceeding.
10.
Mr. Harkat shall inform the Court, the Ministers
and the Canada Border Services Agency of any change of address at least 72
hours prior to the change taking effect. No other persons may occupy the
residence without the approval of the CBSA.
11.
Mr. Harkat shall report once every two weeks to
the CBSA on a day and at a time as determined by a representative of the CBSA.
12.
Mr. Harkat may travel outside the National
Capital Region (Ottawa, Orleans, Kanata, and Gatineau) subject to the following
conditions:
a) Mr. Harkat must remain in Canada;
b) Mr. Harkat must provide the CBSA with at least five (5) full working
days written notice of any such travel, including the itinerary. The itinerary
shall include details that outline the times and dates of travel, the proposed
destination(s), the route and mode of travel;
c) Mr. Harkat shall communicate any change to the itinerary to the CBSA
at the earliest opportunity;
d) Notice and the itinerary may be provided to CBSA by e-mail;
e) Mr. Harkat must report to the CBSA by telephone once per day. If Mr.
Harkat leaves one City or Municipality for another after having reported to the
CBSA, he shall report to the CBSA from the last City or Municipality he is in
on that day;
f)
Mr. Harkat may, in cases of emergency need to
travel, request approval for such travel on 24 hours notice. Such travel will
require the approval of CBSA, however, such approval shall not be unreasonably
withheld.
Other Terms
13.
Mr. Harkat shall not, at any time or in any way,
associate or communicate directly or indirectly with:
a) any person whom Mr. Harkat knows, or ought to know, supports
terrorism or violent Jihad or who attended any training camp or guest house
operated by any entity that supports terrorism or violent Jihad;
b) any person Mr. Harkat knows, or ought to know, has a criminal
record or who poses a threat to national security; or
c) any person the Court may in the future specify in an order amending
this order.
14.
Mr. Harkat shall allow employees of the CBSA,
any person designated by the CBSA and/or any peace officer access to the
residence at any time (upon the production of identification) for the purposes
of ensuring that Mr. Harkat and/or any other persons are complying with the
terms and conditions of this order. The CBSA shall notify the Court and obtain
judicial authorization for any entry made pursuant to this paragraph. All other
occupants of the residence shall sign a document, in a form acceptable to
counsel for the Ministers, agreeing to abide by these terms. Prior to occupying
the residence, any new occupant shall similarly agree to abide by these terms.
15.
Mr. Harkat shall surrender his passport and all
travel documents to a representative of the CBSA. The Ministers shall provide
Mr. Harkat with the name of the officer.
16.
If Mr. Harkat is ordered to be removed from
Canada, he shall report as directed for removal. He shall also report to the
Court as it from time to time may require.
17.
Mr. Harkat shall appear at all Court hearings
and any proceeding or process under the Immigration and Refugee Protection
Act.
18.
Mr. Harkat shall not possess any weapon,
imitation weapon, noxious substance or explosive, or any component thereof.
19.
Mr. Harkat shall keep the peace and be of good
conduct.
20.
Any officer of the CBSA or any peace officer, if
they have reasonable grounds to believe that any term or condition of this
order has been breached, may arrest Mr. Harkat without warrant and cause him to
be detained. Within 48 hours of such detention a Judge of this Court,
designated by the Chief Justice, shall forthwith determine whether there has
been a breach of any term or condition of this order, whether the terms of this
order should be amended and whether Mr. Harkat should be incarcerated.
21.
A breach of this order shall constitute an
offence within the meaning of section 127 of the Criminal Code and shall
constitute an offence pursuant to paragraph 124(1)(a) of the Immigration and
Refugee Protection Act.
22.
The terms and conditions of this order may be
amended in accordance with section 82 of IRPA.