Inquiry Probes 54-Day Delay in CSIS Warrant Approval by Former Minister Bill Blair

A public inquiry seeks answers for the unexplained delay in approving a surveillance warrant targeting a prominent Liberal figure in 2021.

The delay in approving the CSIS warrant, which typically takes 4 to 10 days, extended to 54 days in 2021 under then Public Safety Minister Bill Blair.
The warrant was related to surveillance on Michael Chan, a former Ontario cabinet minister and influential Liberal, raising questions of political sensitivity.
Bill Blair claims he signed the warrant promptly upon it reaching his desk, but testimony suggests it was delayed within his office, possibly due to political vetting.
Zita Astravas, Blair's former chief of staff, is set to testify to clarify her role and the reasons behind the delay.
The inquiry is also examining whether intelligence documents were withheld from Blair during the pandemic, impacting decision-making.