Canadians support the idea of using fingerprints and other biometric information to identify those coming to Canada

A public opinion poll for the Candadian immigration department found that Canadians support the idea of using fingerprints and other biometric information to identify those coming to Canada or to prevent abuse of government programs. However, the poll respondents were more likely to agree with biometric information being collected from non-Canadians than from Canadian citizens.

The Canadian Immigration Department will start fingerprinting applicants for temporary resident visa in 2011. By 2013, anyone who applies for a study permit or work permit as well as those visiting Canada from countries that need a visitor visa, will have to supply their fingerprints.

The poll found the highest level of support, 84 per cent, was for using biometrics to conduct criminal checks on non-Canadians seeking to enter Canada. Canadians also support biometrics being used to verify the identity of non-Canadians applying for a Canadian visa, as well as being included in Canadian passports, used at the border, and to supply airlines and other countries with confirmation of identities.

In the poll the government also tested the idea of collecting biometric information from people who use government programs or who access government buildings.

84% of respondents agreed with using biometrics to prevent abuse of government programs.

76% agreed with it being used to facilitate access to them.

The lowest level of support, 74%, was for requiring biometric information to enter major government buildings.

While there was some concern about how the government might use biometric information, 64% believed the government would only use the information for the purpose for which it was collected.

A majority also supported sharing biometric information with countries like the United States, Britain, Australia and New Zealand.