Ottawa proposes 24/7 surveillance of Canada-U.S. border, new ‘strike force’ to stave off tariff threat
The federal government is taking bold steps to disrupt the flow of fentanyl and strengthen border surveillance in response to U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s concerns about irregular migrants and drugs. Newly sworn-in Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc outlined a plan to invest $1.3 billion in securing the Canada-U.S. border.
The government’s strategy is built on five pillars: detecting and disrupting the fentanyl trade, equipping law enforcement with new tools, enhancing operational coordination, increasing information-sharing, and tightening the immigration and asylum system. To combat the fentanyl crisis, Ottawa will leverage artificial intelligence and imaging tools to detect illegal drugs at the border. The Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) will receive funds to train new dog teams and deploy chemical detection tools at high-risk ports of entry.
The government is also investing in a new aerial intelligence task force for the RCMP, utilizing helicopters and drones for 24/7 surveillance between ports of entry. Counter-drone technology will be employed to enhance border security efforts. The RCMP will hire an additional 150 officers to strengthen border patrols and expand intelligence collection capacity to target transnational organized crime.
In collaboration with the Communications Security Establishment (CSE), Canada plans to propose the creation of a North American joint strike force to combat organized crime. The economic statement also includes legislative changes to combat money laundering and enhance border security. The government aims to improve intelligence-sharing with the U.S. and establish regional hubs for law enforcement collaboration.
The plan also addresses concerns about the flow of people across the border, with measures to curb practices like “flagpoling” for visa renewals. These efforts are intended to address Trump’s tariff threats and strengthen U.S.-Canada relations. While Finance Minister LeBlanc is optimistic about discussions with the U.S. administration, uncertainties remain about the impact of these measures on potential tariffs.
The recent resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, who expressed concerns about the government’s response to Trump’s tariff threats, has added a layer of complexity to the situation. Despite Trump’s disparaging remarks towards Freeland, the federal government remains committed to securing the border and addressing critical issues like fentanyl trafficking and organized crime.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has criticized the Liberal government’s approach, emphasizing the need for effective border security measures at a reasonable cost. The National Police Federation has expressed support for the government’s plan, highlighting the importance of providing resources to law enforcement to protect the border effectively.
Overall, the federal government’s comprehensive border security plan aims to address critical challenges and strengthen Canada’s relationship with the U.S. through enhanced surveillance, intelligence-sharing, and law enforcement coordination. The investments in technology, personnel, and infrastructure underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding the border and combating illicit activities.
