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John Carpay: Public safety is important but we shouldn't surrender our privacy

Bill C-22 would expand the federal government’s surveillance powers, likely including our AI interactions

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The horrific February 2026 mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., has sparked fresh debate about public safety and the role of artificial intelligence. Some call for greater government regulation or even nationalization of AI companies. While the desire to prevent future tragedies is laudable, such measures risk seriously damaging Canadians’ privacy, autonomy and freedom of expression.

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Why do Canadians cherish privacy in the first place? If a person has nothing to hide, why should they care if the authorities can read their emails, texts, or AI conversations? Why does Section 8 of the Charter expressly protect Canadians against unreasonable search and seizure?

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