Ottawa man wanted by France to learn fate

OTTAWA – The fate of an Ottawa sociology professor wanted by French authorities in a decades-old terrorism case should become clearer today.

The Supreme Court of Canada will decide whether to hear Hassan Diab’s appeal and – if so – forestall his extradition to France to face questions about the 1980 bombing of a Paris synagogue.

In arguments filed with the high court, Diab’s lawyers say it’s time to settle key legal questions about the use of unproven intelligence in a criminal prosecution.

They contend France’s reliance on secret information raises basic issues of constitutionality and procedural fairness.

Another key element of the case is the reliability of evidence that has been revealed – especially handwriting on a hotel registration card allegedly penned by Diab.

The Canadian government says Diab’s request for a Supreme Court hearing raises no issue of public importance and should be dismissed.