(OTTAWA) National security adviser Jody Thomas warned Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of possible backlash during planned public consultations on the foreign agents registry.
In this note sent in August, Mr.me Thomas mentioned that the discussions could lead to a wide variety of reactions ranging from strong praise to reservations.
She added that the measure could raise concerns, since several foreign countries, such as Russia, have created registers of foreign agents to silence opponents and shut down organizations that criticize the government.
However, M.me Thomas said national security experts, Canada’s allies and nationals targeted by hostile states would applaud the establishment of a registry.
The Canadian Press obtained the note, stamped “Secret/For Canadians Only,” through the Access to Information Act.
The note also reveals that Mr. Trudeau had discussed his intention to set up a register of foreign agents with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Australia has already created one.