News Release

Government of Canada moves to expand publicly funded border services at airports

Abbotsford, British Columbia, April 3, 2009 – Today Ed Fast, Member of Parliament for Abbotsford, on behalf of the Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of Public Safety, announced that the Government of Canada is investing money in expanding publicly funded services provided by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) at Abbotsford International Airport.

Earlier this week, Minister Van Loan announced that the CBSA will be providing new levels of publicly funded services at six strategic airports in Canada. "I am pleased to say that the Abbotsford airport will be receiving a portion of this investment," said Mr. Fast, speaking to reporters at the airport.

"Our government has been working hard to address the concerns of Canada's air industry. We have worked with stakeholders to find solutions for these concerns and this collaboration clearly demonstrates our commitment to the economic prosperity of Canada," said Minister Van Loan on Monday.

The investment is being made under the provisions of the CBSA's new Air Services Policy Framework that came into effect on April 1, 2009. The framework provides a service delivery approach that is fair, transparent and flexible.

During his earlier announcement, Minister Van Loan recognized the importance of expanding publicly funded border services at the six strategic airports. "In today's recessionary environment, the freedom and security of cross-border travel and commerce provides an essential foundation for our economy."

Today Mr. Fast told reporters that with this investment the Abbotsford airport may now offer its international passengers more flexibility in their travel plans. "The CBSA is expanding its daily operations to provide eight hours of border clearance services on a seasonal basis. These important service changes allow this airport to remain competitive in a dynamic and growing travel industry."

Implementing the Air Services Policy Framework will enable the CBSA to assess, on a case-by-case basis, whether the addition or expansion of publicly funded border services at the requesting eligible site is viable and sustainable. The CBSA continues to work closely with industry stakeholders.

For more information, please visit the CBSA's Web site.

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For media information:

Canada Border Services Agency
Media Relations
613-957-6500