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Controversy Surrounding Canadian Human Rights Commissioner Appointment Deepens as Vetting Process Scrutinized

2024-07-12 21:19:11.175000

The controversy surrounding the appointment of Birju Dattani as the chief commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) has deepened as the vetting process for his appointment is scrutinized. Howard Anglin, a former aide to Stephen Harper, has argued that political staff, rather than the public service, should have flagged Dattani's social media posts. Anglin asserts that political staff are responsible for thoroughly vetting candidates for major appointments and bringing any potential issues to the attention of the government. He criticizes the public service for assuming that the Privy Council Office (PCO) would identify any red flags. Dattani's appointment has been delayed due to anti-Israel comments he made on social media years ago under the alias 'Mujahid Dattani.' The PCO has taken responsibility for the oversight and is conducting a review of its background check process [c758476c].

Anglin explains that ministerial appointments typically undergo an extensive vetting process, including checks within government databases and a review of the candidate's social media history. Political staff would also consult with regional MPs and ministers for additional information about the candidate. However, the final decision on appointments rests with the government. The investigation into Dattani's social media posts is expected to conclude before his scheduled start date in August [c758476c].

The controversy surrounding Dattani's appointment has sparked calls for his removal from the Opposition Conservatives. Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservatives, has vowed to remove Dattani from his position, citing alleged anti-Israel statements. Melissa Lantsman, one of the party's deputy leaders, has called for Dattani's resignation or firing. Jewish advocacy groups have also raised concerns about Dattani's appointment, prompting an independent investigation by Justice Minister Arif Vriani into the allegations surrounding Dattani's online activities from almost a decade ago. Dattani has denied the allegations, and his lawyer, Muneeza Sheikh, has stated that any improper removal of Dattani would be challenged in accordance with the law [ac597de4] [c758476c].

Dattani's appointment has received support from the National Council of Canadian Muslims and a coalition of human rights groups, who argue that efforts to remove him without due process are concerning. The government's investigation into Dattani's social media posts is expected to conclude before his scheduled start date in August [c758476c].

The controversy surrounding Dattani's appointment and the ongoing investigation into his social media posts have raised questions about the vetting process for major appointments in the Canadian government. The review of the background check process by the PCO aims to address these concerns and ensure a more thorough vetting process in the future [c758476c].

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