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Spy watchdog says it faces difficult choices about future reviews due to budget cuts
NSIRA must cut reviews by 15% over three years amid government spending reductions despite increased funding for other security agencies, says vice-chair Craig Forcese.
- On Dec. 3, 2025, the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency warned its capacity to scrutinize intelligence bodies will be hindered by the federal government spending review.
- The federal budget presented last month mandates $13 billion in annual savings by 2028-29, reducing NSIRA funding while the Liberal government expands powers under Bill C-2 and hires more RCMP and CBSA officers.
- NSIRA's vice‑chair said the agency will triage reviews by asking `is this a nice to have, or a need to have?` and face `very difficult choices` in coming years due to federal budget cuts.
- The agency expects immediate reductions and some staff losses, and Forcese said he has written to Prime Minister Mark Carney seeking funding with no reply, while Gary Anandasangaree, Public Safety Minister, acknowledged less cash.
- The NSIRA co-chair warned that departments never reviewed will likely be deprioritized as Bill C-2 powers and defence and national security agencies expand, stressing limits on NSIRA staff expertise.
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Spy watchdog says it faces difficult choices about future reviews due to budget cuts
The vice-chair of the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency says the spy watchdog will face “very difficult choices” about what it examines in coming years due to federal budget cuts.
·Canada
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Intelligence watchdog facing cuts as Liberals seek new powers for national security agencies
One of the watchdogs meant to keep Canada's intelligence and security activities in check is warning it will have to reduce the number of reviews it can take on due to the Liberal government’s spending cuts.
·Canada
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Total News Sources20
Leaning Left13Leaning Right0Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution87% Left
Bias Distribution
- 87% of the sources lean Left
87% Left
L 87%
13%
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