UN concerned about Canada's new anti-terror law

TORONTO — A United Nations human rights body is raising concerns about Canada's new anti-terror legislation, saying it could run afoul of international human rights norms.

The Anti-Terrorism Act, passed by parliament in June, makes it easier for intelligence officers, border guards, and law enforcement officials to monitor and arrest potential terror suspects in Canada.

The United Nations Human Rights Committee said in a report released Wednesday that it is concerned that that the law grants the government sweeping powers but does not contain enough legal safeguards to protect people's political and civil rights.

Critics say the bill will make it easier for security officials to place Canadians under surveillance.