by Jason McIntyre
Source: CFRA News
URL: [link]
Date: January 13, 2011


Mohamed Harkat wants the Federal Court of Appeal to review the country's security certificate system.

Investigators used the controversial item in December 2002 to detain the Ottawa resident.

Harkat was suspected of being an al-Qaida sleeper agent.

Judge Simon Noel ruled last month that the former pizza delivery man maintained ties to the global terror organization.

He also decided that the certificates were constitutionally valid.

Harkat's lawyers suggest the documents - which can be employed as part of deportation procedures - might not be consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

They argue, among other things, that special advocates fail to ensure the process is constitutional.

The watchdog officials were added following a 2007 Supreme Court declaration.

Harkat denies any terrorism claims.

The 42-year-old has previously stated that a forced return to Algeria will lead to torture.

The federal government will reply to all legal statements before Judge Noel announces whether he'll submit any questions to the appellate court.

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