MPs to debate anti-terror bill Monday

OTTAWA – The House of Commons will debate legislation today that would give police more powers in the event of terrorist attacks.

The Combating Terrorism Act would also create a new criminal offence that would apply to people leaving Canada for the purpose of committing acts of terrorism abroad.

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National security agencies estimate that in recent years at least 50 Canadians have travelled to, or tried to travel to Somalia, the Afghanistan-Pakistan tribal areas, Syria and Yemen to engage in terrorism-related activities.

The Liberals have indicated they’ll support the bill, while the NDP are questioning its timing, coming hot on the heels of the Boston bombings.

Canada’s public safety minister says the attacks in Boston showed that it is vital for all levels of policing and government to work together to battle terrorists.

Vik Toews also told CTV’s Question Period that Canadian security forces are prepared to respond to such attacks.