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Letter to the Editor: Ottawa Citizen
26 December 2010
Re: Border guards halt joint operations with police - December 25, 2010 by Chris Cobb
As we pointed out in a July 2010 letter to the editor, I would like to once again correct some of the points raised in the Ottawa Citizen article regarding CBSA Joint Forces Operations. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is NOT ceasing all Joint Forces Operations led by police as Mr. Cobb and Mr. Moran continue to insist.
Joint Forces Operations have proven to be very successful over the years. They have resulted in safer Canadian communities through significant seizures of contraband, numerous arrests and removals of criminals. These operations have a specific duration, identified targets, and an anticipated outcome. These operations fall within the mandate of the CBSA to combat the illegal entry and exit of people and goods to our country. The participation of the CBSA in these operations is a vital part of its mandate, and officers are fully equipped and authorized to participate under the Canada Border Services Agency Act.
The CBSA will no longer be participating in those activities that fall outside of CBSA's mandate, where we provide general assistance to law enforcement and police agencies in instances where it is not a designated Joint Forces Operation. This includes police investigations that are entirely domestic in nature. Traditionally, in some regions of the country, our officers have been permitted to participate in these operations on a voluntary basis. However, as these actions are not designated Joint Forces Operations, we have taken the responsible decision to direct that participation in these operations be ceased.
The safety and security of our officers is one of the Canada Border Services Agency's highest priorities. To be clear, the CBSA will continue to take an active role in Joint Forces Operations with other agencies, and our officers will be authorized to carry their firearms in the execution of their legislated duties.
Pierre Sabourin, Ottawa
Vice-President, Operations
Canada Border Services Agency
