section 83.32(5)

INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The definition of sitting day of Parliament is provided in subsection (1).

SECTION WORDING

83.32(5) In subsection (1), "sitting day of Parliament" means a day on which both Houses of Parliament sit.

EXPLANATION

Section 83.32(5) of the Criminal Code of Canada defines the term sitting day of Parliament" as a day on which both Houses of Parliament are in session. The provision is included in subsection (1) of the section which deals with the suspension of certain prohibitions and restrictions related to terrorism in cases where the Prime Minister determines that it is necessary to do so to prevent a national emergency. The section outlines the criteria to be met before such suspensions can be put into effect. This includes the Prime Minister determining that an emergency exists which poses a significant threat to the security of Canada and its citizens, and that the suspension of the laws is necessary to prevent the harm or damage that may result from such an emergency. Given the sensitive nature of these types of cases, it is important that there is a clear definition of when a sitting day of Parliament occurs. This ensures that the suspension of the relevant laws is only carried out in legitimate circumstances, and not during times when Parliament is not in session, which could lead to abuses of power. The definition of sitting day of Parliament" provided in the section is precise and clear, ensuring that any decisions made under the section are lawful and in keeping with the intent of the law. This provision serves as an essential safeguard in situations where the government might feel compelled to take drastic measures in the face of an emergency, while still ensuring that the rights and freedoms of Canadians are respected and protected.

COMMENTARY

Section 83.32(5) of the Criminal Code of Canada is a provision that defines the term "sitting day of Parliament." The provision is included in subsection (1) of the section, which deals with the declaration of an entity or individual as a terrorist organization or a listed person, respectively. The section defines a "sitting day of Parliament" as a day when both the Houses of Parliament sit. This means that for the purposes of this section, a day on which either the House of Commons or the Senate meets alone does not qualify as a "sitting day of Parliament." The requirement for both Houses to sit is intended to ensure that the decision to declare an entity or individual as a terrorist organization or a listed person is made with the full authority of Parliament. The inclusion of this provision in the Criminal Code is significant because it reflects the importance that is attached to the declaration of an entity or individual as a terrorist organization or a listed person. These designations carry serious consequences for their targets, including the freezing of their assets, restrictions on their movements and activities, and potential criminal charges. Therefore, it is essential that the decision to make such a designation is made with the utmost care and scrutiny. The requirement for both Houses of Parliament to sit on a "sitting day" may seem like a technicality, but it serves to ensure that the decision to make a designation is made through a fully democratic process. By requiring both houses to be in session, the provision ensures that the decision is made with the fullest possible representation of the Canadian electorate. This further underscores the gravity of such a decision and reinforces the expectations of accountability and transparency on the part of our elected representatives. The underlying principle behind Section 83.32(5) is the importance of democratic accountability in the decision-making process surrounding the declaration of terrorist organizations or listed persons. By requiring that both Houses of Parliament be in session on a "sitting day," the provision ensures that the decision is not made by a few individuals or bureaucrats, but rather by a full complement of elected representatives who are accountable to their constituents. This provision serves to safeguard the principles of democracy and the rule of law in our country. In conclusion, Section 83.32(5) of the Criminal Code of Canada provides a clear and concise definition of a "sitting day of Parliament" for the purposes of making a declaration of an entity or individual as a terrorist organization or listed person. This provision ensures that the decision is made with the full authority of our elected representatives and reflects the importance that Canadians attach to democratic accountability in our institutions of governance. It is a provision that serves to reinforce the principles of our democracy and underlines the value that we attach to the rule of law in our country.

STRATEGY

Section 83.32(5) of the Criminal Code of Canada defines sitting day of Parliament" for the purpose of subsection (1), which outlines the requirements for notifying lawful authorities of a terrorist activity. This section is crucial for law enforcement and national security agencies to prevent and mitigate terrorist activities. It is essential to understand the strategic considerations when dealing with this section of the Criminal Code of Canada. Firstly, it is important to note that the definition of a sitting day may limit the timely response to a potential terrorist activity. As Parliament may not sit every day, and the notification requirement is based on a sitting day, this may delay crucial information-sharing efforts between law enforcement agencies. Therefore, one strategic consideration is to establish alternative channels of communication to ensure the swift and effective response to terrorist threats. Secondly, it is essential to understand the political implications of a terrorist activity notification during a sitting day of Parliament. This notification requirement may cause a political uproar, especially if the activity is deemed as a significant threat to national security. Therefore, a strategic consideration is to ensure that the right officials are notified to avoid a public scandal. Thirdly, the Criminal Code of Canada does not define what activities constitute a terrorist activity, which raises the question of what activities require notification to lawful authorities on a sitting day of Parliament. Therefore, strategic considerations should include developing clear guidelines for when an activity meets the threshold requiring notification. Lastly, it is crucial to ensure that the notification process itself does not trigger the terrorist activity. A notification that is too broad or premature may alert the perpetrators to the existence of national security agencies' knowledge of their plans. Therefore, a strategic consideration is to develop protocols that minimize the risk of terrorist activity escalation in response to the notification process. Several strategies could be employed to address these strategic considerations effectively. For example, law enforcement agencies could establish clear and concise guidelines on what activities warrant notification, reducing the risk of confusion and inconsistency. Additionally, these agencies could establish protocols for alternative communication channels and procedures to minimize delay in notifying lawful authorities. Furthermore, developing clear and concise communication plans, highlighting the chain of command and likely political implications, would help minimize the risk of public backlash. National security agencies could also conduct regular training programs for both leadership and operational staff to ensure they understand the appropriate threshold for notification. In conclusion, section 83.32(5) of the Criminal Code of Canada defines and limits the notification requirement of terrorist activities. Strategic considerations when dealing with this section of the code include the need for alternative communication channels, clear guidelines, and protocols, the political implications of notification during a sitting day of Parliament, and the need to ensure the notification process itself does not trigger terrorist activity. These strategic considerations can be addressed through the development of clear protocols, communication plans, training programs, and alternative communication channels.