RCMP commissioner open to deploying cadets to harden the border

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is considering deploying Mounties-in-training to help police the Canada-U.S. border amidst rising political anxiety over border control in light of tariff threats from the incoming Trump administration.

RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme revealed that the RCMP is exploring the possibility of sending uniformed officers from its federal policing department to bolster border patrols. Additionally, he mentioned that deploying cadets from the training depot in Regina could be an option in case of a resource shortage.

Duheme emphasized the need for additional resources in the face of a potential surge in asylum seekers heading north and to address the concerns of the incoming U.S. administration regarding border security. He highlighted the use of RCMP cadets in enhancing security on Parliament Hill in 2014 following a tragic incident.

In response to U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s recent threats of imposing tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, Canada has committed to acquiring more helicopters and drones for border patrol. The RCMP has requested an increase in the number of uniformed officers stationed at the border and is also seeking additional personnel to operate the new technology.

The request for more federal policing resources comes at a time when the RCMP’s federal policing division is facing staffing challenges. The unit, responsible for border integrity and investigating various national security threats, has experienced a decline in regular members over the past decade due to staffing reassignments.

Meanwhile, the union representing Canada Border Services Agency workers has urged the federal government to expand the mandate of border agents to patrol the entire border, not just official entry points. The union president emphasized the importance of collaboration between CBSA officers and RCMP officers in protecting the border and communities.

Duheme expressed openness to discussing potential changes in mandates but indicated that it would be a longer-term consideration. He emphasized the need to explore different approaches to border security and highlighted the importance of adapting to evolving challenges.

The ongoing discussions and plans for enhancing border security reflect Canada’s commitment to addressing growing concerns and ensuring effective border control measures. As the situation continues to evolve, collaboration between various law enforcement agencies will be crucial in safeguarding the border and maintaining national security.