Canadian Security Intelligence Service
A civilian organization of the Canadian Government responsible for intelligence management and counterintelligence, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service is responsible for recognizing and reporting potential threats to Canada. It is under the general direction of the Solicitor General. [1]
History
The first Canadian intelligence collection was for police work in 1864. [2] By 1984, however, it was time for a major reorganization, in part to make the difference clear between police and national security intelligence. [3]
Collection
Until recently, it conducts no clandestine intelligence collection although it has access to signals intelligence produced by the Communications Security Establishment and through close relationships with allies. A 2007 statement, however, says "the Service may engage in covert operational activities outside of Canada. These activities are varied in nature, but all are conducted in accordance with the CSIS Act, CSIS policy and Ministerial Direction, and with appropriate approvals in place."[4]
Analysis and dissemination
While it produces reports at all levels of classified information, it probably publishes more of its analytical output than any world intelligence agency; see Canadian Security Intelligence Service/External Links.
References
- ↑ Canadian Security Intelligence Service/Service Canadien du Renseignement de Sécurité, Globalsecurity
- ↑ History of CSIS: In the Beginning, Canadian Security Intelligence Service
- ↑ History of CSIS: The Creation of Canada's Civilian Security Intelligence Service, Canadian Security Intelligence Service
- ↑ Backgrounder: Collection of Security Intelligence Outside of Canada, Canadian Security Intelligence Service, June 2007