Purpose
As a civilian organisation, the Security Intelligence Service takes no part in the enforcement of security (although it has limited powers to intercept communications and search residences). Its role is intended to be advisory, providing the government with information on threats to national security or national interests. It also advises other government agencies about their own internal security measures, and is responsible for performing checks on government employees who require security clearance. The SIS is responsible for most of the government's counter-intelligence work.
The NZSIS is a civilian intelligence and security organisation. Its threefold roles are:
- to investigate threats to security and to work with other agencies within Government, so that the intelligence it collects is actioned and threats which have been identified are disrupted
- to collect foreign intelligence
- to provide a range of protective security advice and services to Government.
In 2007, it was reported that the SIS wished to expand its role into fighting organised crime.
Read more about this topic: New Zealand Security Intelligence Service
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