Former RCMP officer newest SIRC appointee

A former RCMP officer and corporate security specialist is the newest federal appointee of the watchdog that keeps an eye on the Canadian Security Intelligence Service.

• Chuck Strahl steps down as spy watchdog amid lobbying questions

Gene McLean, a private consultant who was once chief security officer for Telus Corp., joins three others on the Security Intelligence Review Committee, leaving it one member short of a full complement.

In its latest planning report to Parliament, tabled this week, the review committee says its effectiveness depends on having a full slate of five members.

Former MP Deborah Grey was named interim chairwoman of the review committee last year when Chuck Strahl stepped down amid questions about his lobbying activities.

A permanent chair has not been named.