by The Canadian Press
Source: The Winnipeg Free Press
URL: [link]
Date: December 10, 2010

OTTAWA - Mohamed Harkat says he's been "devastated" by a Federal Court ruling that calls him a security threat.

The Algerian-born Harkat says the decision's made him physically ill.

His tearful wife, Sophie, called the ruling a "punch in the guts" to her and her husband.

A Federal Court judge ruled Thursday that there are grounds to believe the Harkat is a security threat.

Judge Simon Noel said he believes Harkat maintained ties to Osama bin Laden's terror network after coming to Canada.

The decision could pave the way for Harkat's deportation to his native country.

Harkat's lawyers say much of the evidence Noel consulted remains secret and has never been tested through cross-examination.

Harkat said he was shaken by the ruling.

"I can't sleep. I'm not thinking straight. I have pain in my stomach."

He said he told the truth in his testimony.

"You go to the court and you explain yourself exactly what happened," he said.

"You're coming for this country to have life, to build yourself . . and all of a sudden you know you're attacked."

He said he was completely open in court.

"There is only two things, he is going to believe me (and) quash certificate or, on other things, he believe another party, the government and find me. . . . somebody has to pay the price. I pay the price."

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