The Department of National Defence (DND) has announced new security regulations that will impose lifetime secrecy obligations on select public servants and military personnel. This initiative falls under the Persons Permanently Bound to Secrecy (PPBS) provisions, which will affect both current and former staff, as well as designated private contractors.

The DND has not disclosed the exact number of individuals impacted by these changes, but it is anticipated to be significant. Notices will be distributed in the coming months to those affected.

According to the DND, the implementation of these changes will take time, as it involves thousands of individuals across various levels within the military and defense agencies. An internal message was sent to military personnel on April 25, followed by a public announcement on July 15 regarding the new regulations.

Kened Sadiku, a spokesperson for the DND, emphasized the department's commitment to safeguarding sensitive information. In an email, he stated, "The department takes its obligation to protect information seriously."

As the DND moves forward with this initiative, it aims to enhance security protocols within the Canadian Forces and the defense sector.