On January 16, 2025, CIU National President Mark Weber, along with CIU 1st National Vice-President Rick Savage, met with the new Minister of Public Safety, David McGuinty. This introductory meeting was held at the request of the Minister and most welcomed by the union, as it allowed both parties to initiate a discussion on a number of issues affecting the border and our members.
There was a particular focus on the expansion of early retirement eligibility for frontline officers, given the importance of this measure for our members and the prorogation of Parliament. While the Minister could not offer a definitive answer on this issue, he was appreciative of its significance and committed to looking into possible ways forward.
The union also brought forward its concerns with recent decisions pertaining to border security and the federal border strategy, notably regarding the lack of reliance on CBSA personnel to secure the border between ports of entry, which ought to be a priority to better respond to mounting border challenges.
Overall, the meeting was positive. At a time when border issues are at the forefront of public discourse, CIU is glad that the Minister is seeking to engage the union on important questions, and we look forward to a next meeting.
