Trudeau directs key adviser to deliver renewed national security strategy

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has directed a top adviser to deliver a renewed national security strategy setting out a framework for Canada’s security, defence and diplomatic posture.

In a newly issued mandate letter, Trudeau said he expects national security and intelligence adviser Nathalie Drouin to consult Canadians and work through the national security council to develop the strategy.

He said the new strategy, to be ready next year, should be reviewed every four years to ensure it remains current and responsive.

The mandate for Drouin, made public Monday, said discussions on foreign interference reaffirm the need for a stronger, more clearly articulated role for the national security adviser.

“It is a dynamic, ever-changing, and evolving role depending on current affairs and priorities. Enhancing your role will help ensure the right information and intelligence gets to the right people at the right time, and that decision makers are given actionable options and advice.”

Trudeau said he expects Drouin, who became security adviser last January, to manage the flow of intelligence and analysis necessary for him to effectively fulfil his duties.

In addition, he cited a need to improve transparency and discussion with Canadians — especially those directly affected by emerging threats — to help raise awareness and improve Canada’s ability to respond.

Trudeau said this includes better communication with parliamentarians, civil society representatives, diaspora communities, provinces and territories, Indigenous groups, allied partners and industry.

Among the other tasks for Drouin:

— act as secretary to the national security council, a cabinet committee chaired by Trudeau, with comprehensive intelligence and strategic advice;

— lead a refreshed annual process to establish Canada’s intelligence priorities, and work with security agencies to communicate these priorities publicly;

— enhance awareness among ministers of current and emerging strategic threats, identify options to manage them and ensure a coherent response;

— co-ordinate the federal national security community to ensure timely, effective operational response to major incidents affecting national security;

— work with the national security community to address recommendations on foreign interference from various bodies — efforts that should include modernization of the intelligence assessment function and ensuring proper flow of intelligence across government;

— and support federal efforts to co-ordinate federal emergency preparedness and response capacity to meet challenges including climate change, rapid technological advancement and a shifting geopolitical landscape.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 25, 2024.