Policy advice and support

PS provides independent advice and support to the Minister on matters of national security. To do this, PS analysts consult with portfolio agencies,  other federal departments and agencies, provincial and territorial governments and the international community. The Department focuses on three areas:

• Legislation
• Operations
• Investigative and telecommunications technologies

Legislation

• Assesses and advises on gaps and vulnerabilities in Canada's national security legislative and policy framework and develops proposals to address these issues.
• Supports the Minister in the implementation and management of policies related to national security legislation.

Operations

• Provides independent advice and support to the Minister on the direction, control and accountability for CSIS, as well as the national security responsibilities of the RCMP and the CBSA – including for matters related to security certificates.
• Assists in the development and implementation of new policies, responds to Parliamentary committees and designs and evaluates research studies related to security and intelligence.

Investigative and telecommunications technologies

• Analyzes and advises on how the illicit use of information and communication technologies could impact investigations and intelligence gathering of law enforcement and national security agencies.
• Coordinates an action plan for lawful access, enabling law enforcement and national security agencies to lawfully intercept communications and search and seize information.
• Works in collaboration with the Department of Justice and Industry Canada on a review of the legislative framework for lawful access to ensure that Canada's laws keep pace with technology.

Summary of public consultation on access to customer name and address information for public safety purposes