RCMP commissioner open to idea of integrated U.S.-Canada aerial border patrols

The head of the RCMP, Commissioner Mike Duheme, has expressed openness to the idea of implementing an integrated cross-border aerial law enforcement program that would involve U.S. officials assisting in patrolling the Canadian side of the border. This proposal comes in response to a U.S. Senate bill that would authorize the Department of Homeland Security to negotiate joint U.S.-Canada aerial patrols along the border.

Commissioner Duheme mentioned that he has been briefed on the proposed program and referenced the existing Shiprider marine program as a successful example of cross-border cooperation. Shiprider, a decade-old agreement, allows the U.S. Coast Guard and the RCMP to board ships and make arrests in both Canadian and American waters, depending on which side of the border they are on.

The U.S. Senate bill suggests that the jurisdiction of the proposed aerial patrol program would be limited to territory within 50 miles of either side of the border, approximately 80 kilometers on each side. Although the bill has advanced past the committee stage in the Senate, its chances of passing during the current lame-duck session of Congress are slim.

In addition to the aerial patrol program, discussions have also been held regarding a land-based version of the Shiprider program. Commissioner Duheme mentioned that work is being done on this initiative, but a timeline has not been confirmed.

These developments come as the Canadian government addresses concerns raised by U.S. president-elect Donald Trump regarding the border. Trump has threatened to impose 25 percent tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico unless action is taken to address the flow of drugs and illegal immigrants into the U.S. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently met with Canada’s premiers to discuss Ottawa’s plan to address these concerns and enhance border security measures.

The government’s plan includes tightening restrictions on chemical precursors used to produce drugs like fentanyl and improving coordination between the RCMP and other law enforcement agencies. There are also reports indicating that the Trudeau government is considering investing hundreds of millions, possibly exceeding $1 billion, to protect the border.

Commissioner Duheme expressed surprise at the proposed budget allocation for border security measures, but did not disclose the specific amount he has requested. Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc has stated that details of the government’s plan will be revealed in the coming days, including potential investments in equipment such as helicopters and drones to enhance border surveillance and enforcement capabilities.

Overall, the proposed integrated cross-border aerial law enforcement program and other border security initiatives reflect the ongoing efforts to address border concerns and strengthen cooperation between Canada and the U.S. on law enforcement matters.