Federal Public Safety Minister David McGuinty and Terry Duguid, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, joined Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew at the Emerson Port of Entry Tuesday morning to review strengthened border security measures recently put in place.
While meeting with reporters after the tour, McGuinty noted the visit was all about seeing firsthand the multiagency approach being deployed at the border.
“What is truly a unique Team Canada approach to improving things on our border,” is how he described it. “The border is strong, but the investments we’re making are making the border stronger.”
The investments he was referring to were announced late Monday after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump, and a 30 day pause on the implementation of proposed tariffs on all Canadian goods was also announced. Those measures included an additional $200 million to fight organized crime, the appointment of what Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called a “fentanyl czar” , as well as add Mexican cartels to the list of terrorist organizations.
“We have a lot at stake”
“Our objective yesterday was not to have any terrorists, today no terrorists and tomorrow no terrorists,” McGuinty said. “We’re looking forward to cooperating with our American counterparts, and going forward and reminding each other every day of the 150 year legacy we’ve had between our countries.”
The Minister noted constituents are calling his office, some in tears, upset and wondering what might happen if tariffs are imposed.
“That’s why we’ve got to continue on this Team Canada journey together to continue to manage this most important of relationships with our largest trading partner, our geographical neighbour and our strongest ally,” he added. “We have a lot of stake, and that’s what we’re doing together, that’s why it’s important to continue these efforts and that’s why we’re here today.”
Premier Kinew echoes sentiments
“The work you do here at the border is going to be integral to us strengthening the relationship with the United States of America, our closest ally and most important trading partner,” opened the Premier to those assembled inside one of CBSA’s Emerson facilities. “I think, as the province of Manitoba, we’re really happy to step up to partner with law enforcement, conservation officers, emergency measures organization officials to support a strong secure border.”
Kinew stressed we have to have “24/7 eyes on the border” and the only way we will be able to do that is by working together.
The visit included a Designated Safe Examination Area demonstration, which allows CBSA to more safely and effectively detect and identify fentanyl and other highly toxic substances at ports of entry.
“And let’s be clear, the reason we’re doing this is because this is good for Manitobans,” he noted. “Manitobans want to see fentanyl taken off the streets. Manitobans want a secure border, and if we can make those investments at the same time we’re strengthening the relationship with the United States of America and helping our economy, then it’s all the better.”
The Premier also shared a message of gratitude and a personal thank you to those serving to secure the border.
– With files from Alexander Peters and Candace Derksen –
