OTTAWA – Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree is set to introduce a new bill aimed at outlining the federal government's forthcoming actions regarding border security. This development follows the recent throne speech, which vowed to enhance security measures at Canada’s borders and equip police and intelligence agencies with novel tools designed to combat the flow of lethal fentanyl and its precursor substances.
Additionally, the government plans to empower the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) with enhanced capabilities to scrutinize goods intended for export. This initiative targets the prevention of illegal and stolen items, including vehicles, from exiting Canada.
The Liberal government has also been actively engaging with U.S. President Donald Trump, working to convince him that Canada is effectively managing the southbound flow of drugs and irregular migration. This dialogue became particularly crucial after Trump attributed the issues of fentanyl and unauthorized migration as justifications for imposing tariffs on Canadian imports.
The forthcoming legislation is expected to build upon previous Canadian initiatives, which have included continuous surveillance of the border through the deployment of helicopters, drones, and surveillance towers. These measures aim to bolster oversight and ensure effective monitoring of border activities.
In conjunction with these efforts, Ottawa is collaborating with Washington to establish a North American "joint strike force" intended to target organized crime syndicates that operate across the Canada-U.S. border. This cooperative strategy highlights the commitment of both nations to address shared security challenges and dismantle criminal networks that exploit border vulnerabilities.
Overall, the proposed bill and the associated enhancements in border security reflect the government's proactive approach to safeguarding Canada's borders while addressing pressing issues related to drug trafficking and illegal immigration. This legislative framework aims to fortify the country's defenses against threats, thereby ensuring public safety and promoting stability in the region.
