Canada tables bill to strengthen border security

On Tuesday, Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree introduced legislation in the House of Commons aimed at strengthening border security.

The legislation would grant authorities expanded powers to search mail, make it easier for officials to suspend or reject immigration applications, and broaden the Canadian Coast Guard’s mandate to include security-related duties.

According to the feds, the bill aims to maintain border security, counter transnational organized crime, stop the flow of illegal drugs and intensify efforts to stop money laundering.

A major part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s reasoning for imposing tariffs on its northern neighbour has been drugs he believes have been flowing south across the border from Canada. The aim of this bill is to convince Trump that Canada is doing enough to curb the flow of illegal substances.

The bill builds on previous Canadian initiatives, such as 24/7 border surveillance using helicopters, drones, and surveillance towers.

In addition, Ottawa is collaborating with Washington on the creation of a North American “joint strike force” aimed at dismantling cross-border organized crime networks.

With files from The Canadian Press.

READ MORE: Tariff struggle: Duty-free stores ask Ottawa for financial help