OTTAWA — The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has alerted the federal public safety minister about significant resource challenges in addressing foreign interference threats. This warning comes as the RCMP and other federal security agencies face increasing pressure from diaspora communities to enhance efforts against meddling and transnational repression from countries like China, Russia, Iran, and India.

In the 2023 federal budget, the government allocated $48.9 million over three years to the RCMP to combat foreign interference. This funding aims to protect Canadians from harassment and intimidation, boost investigative capabilities, and engage more proactively with at-risk communities. A briefing document prepared in May for the incoming Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree indicates that threats to Canada are escalating across the national security landscape.

The RCMP's briefing materials state, "Without adequate funding, the RCMP is forced to divert resources to the highest threats to Canada’s safety and security, which affects our ability to respond to other threats." The report emphasizes that the RCMP continues to struggle with resource limitations in addressing foreign interference.

A federal inquiry report released in January found no evidence of collusion between members of Parliament and foreign states, countering public concerns. However, the inquiry made over 40 recommendations aimed at improving federal preparedness, enhancing transparency, and strengthening electoral integrity to protect diaspora communities. It specifically urged the government to ensure the RCMP is adequately funded to investigate and disrupt foreign interference activities.

The report also recommended that all RCMP officers working in affected communities receive training on foreign interference, including transnational repression. Additionally, it called for prioritizing the recruitment, training, and retention of personnel skilled in addressing these issues.

As Prime Minister Mark Carney's government prepares to present its first budget on November 4, the RCMP has reiterated the need for specialized resources to effectively combat the complex and multi-dimensional nature of foreign interference. The police force stated, "Like other national security concerns, such as violent extremism and cyber-based threats, the RCMP must be fully equipped to deliver on its mandate."

Earlier this year, the Carney government committed to adding 1,000 new personnel to the RCMP. The force noted that this investment would alleviate existing pressures and help address current federal law enforcement challenges, which include national security, serious organized crime, and cyberattacks.

The RCMP remains dedicated to combating foreign interference at all levels and is utilizing all available tools to do so. The briefing materials caution that democratic institutions are vulnerable to hostile state actors aiming to influence candidates, narratives, and legislative processes. The notes state, "Hostile states target democratic processes and participants at every level of government, as well as the media, public figures, and civil society. Autocratic states seek to undermine trust in democracy itself."

Legislation passed under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau established new offenses for deceptive acts that undermine democratic processes, including covertly influencing candidate nominations. This legislation also paved the way for a foreign influence transparency registry, requiring certain individuals to register with the federal government.

The RCMP's briefing notes indicate that this legislation has enhanced their legal tools to combat foreign interference. However, they also highlight the complexities of bringing charges in this area, citing limitations on information sharing and the well-resourced nature of foreign-backed actors.