Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree faced tough questions on Tuesday regarding the deportation of an Iranian official by the Canadian government, despite ongoing concerns about the activities of the Iranian regime domestically and internationally.
During a parliamentary committee meeting, Anandasangaree emphasized that Canada is actively working to expel members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), recognized as a terrorist organization in Canada since 2024. He stressed the importance of following due process even in such cases.
The Liberal government has been under pressure from diaspora groups and the Opposition concerning its handling of former IRGC members, with increased scrutiny following recent hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Anandasangaree disclosed that approximately 24 individuals have been identified as IRGC members and deemed inadmissible, with efforts underway for their removal.
According to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), as of March 5, three individuals have been issued deportation orders, with one having been deported already. Anandasangaree mentioned that another individual is set for imminent removal, and six others have voluntarily left Canada.
Emphasizing the adherence to legal standards, Anandasangaree reiterated the government’s commitment to removing all IRGC affiliates present in Canada.
CBSA has reviewed 17,800 visa applications, canceling 239 visas. The agency is also grappling with challenges related to mandatory military service in Iran, which complicates investigations involving suspected IRGC personnel.
The IRGC’s history of aggressive behavior and violence in Canada has been well-documented, prompting heightened vigilance by Canadian authorities.
In a recent speech, CSIS Director Daniel Rogers highlighted the organization’s efforts to counter Iranian intelligence activities targeting perceived threats within Canada, necessitating a shift in operational priorities.
The public inquiry into foreign interference identified Iran’s focus on transnational repression rather than direct intervention in Canadian elections, highlighting the regime’s tactics of utilizing criminal groups for its operations.
The tragic downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 by the IRGC in January 2020, resulting in the loss of 175 lives, including Canadian citizens, serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by the actions of such entities.
