The Canadian government 's Bill C-26 , which aims to protect critical infrastructure from cyberattacks and prohibits telecommunications providers from working with "dangerous" suppliers like Huawei , is in limbo due to a drafting error.
Introduced in 2022, the Huawei bill is divided into two parts: amending the Telecommunications Law, aimed at prohibiting the use of products from high-risk suppliers, and introducing the Protection , to strengthen cybersecurity.
See also: FCC: Describes Huawei and ZTE as a "threat" to US security
However, a problem with the numbering of sections was identified, related to the Foreign Intervention Act C-70, which mistakenly repealed the second part of C-26. Correcting this error could further delay passage, while the bill is already facing opposition for the broad powers it grants to the government without sufficient oversight.
Additionally, the delay affects the implementation of the Huawei ban. The Canadian government requires carriers to remove 5G by June 2024 and 4G by 2027. Without C-26, it cannot legally enforce these requirements. Companies like Rogers and Bell have declared compliance, while Telus has not made its position clear.
Read more: New bill proposes stricter security regulations for telecommunications companies
Huawei's involvement in 5G networks raises national security concerns, as its technology could enable espionage under Chinese laws that require companies to cooperate with state intelligence agencies. Huawei denies any involvement in espionage activities.
Source: cbc
