In a far-reaching announcement*, the Bloc Québécois proposed on April 10 a series of sweeping measures to address a range of shortcomings within Canada’s border services infrastructure.
Most striking is the proposal to create a new Border Ministry to oversee CBSA and improve the management of Canada’s border services. While it is too early to comment in detail on this proposal as little is known about what such restructuring would entail for the frontline, it is clear that improving how our border services are managed must be a priority considering current border challenges. It is no secret that there is a significant disconnect between the Agency’s upper echelons and the frontline. Border officers work hard to keep the country safe, and they deserve that those managing the border understand the realities in the field.
Particularly well received by the union are other proposals by the Bloc Québécois that directly address many of CIU’s demands, notably:
- Expanding the mandate of border services officers to allow them to patrol between ports of entry along with the RCMP;
- Increasing CBSA staffing levels;
- Reversing the reduction of hours of service at ports of entry;
- More focus on rail inspections.
While we would also have liked to see a clear commitment in this announcement in support of the implementation of 25 and out for our members, CIU applauds the Bloc Québécois for taking note of many of the key points which our union has advocated for over the years. This announcement, along with the Bloc’s recent response to our letter regarding labour rights, demonstrates a real understanding of both border and labour issues. We invite other parties to take note.
*Link in French only.
