In the world of politics there will be unpopular legislation - it comes with the territory. But rarely in Canada is a bill denounced as "dangerous."
Such is the case with the Conservative government's anti-terrorism Bill C-51.
Canadian Journalists for Freedom of Expression, and the Canadian Civil Liberties Association are launching a court challenge to its constitutionality.
This week the Toronto Star quoted Paul Cavalluzzo, a renowned constitutional lawyer. "Terrorism is a problem," he noted, "but that doesn't give the government license to, in effect, run stampede over our rights and liberties."
Canada's Public Safety Minister Stephen Blaney was in town this week. Bill C-51, he said, "is crafted with very reasonable measures."
Blaney said he believes this legislation is keeping Canadians safe and is "fully constitutional."
That, of course, is coming from a fellow who, prior to entering politics, worked as a civil engineer, specifically in water purification and energy efficiency - not a renowned constitutional lawyer.
It will be interesting, and of consequence to all Canadians, how the courts will receive this challenge.
The Now