August 31, 2006 -- Today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper outlined the Government of Canada’s plan to improve border security in B.C. and across this country.” 

A safe, secure and efficient border is important for Canada, and for all Canadians,” said Prime Minister Harper. “It is vital to our country’s economy, and will protect the safety and security of all of our local communities.”

Strengthening Canada’s border security will also create positive change for Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers. In the 2006 Budget, $101 million was committed over the next two years to do the following:

* 400 new permanent border CBSA officers will be hired, trained and equipped so that they are no longer required to work alone.
* 4,400 CBSA officers at land and marine Ports of Entry (POEs), as well as officers who perform enforcement functions inland, will be trained and equipped with side-arms.

“Arming CBSA officers and eliminating situations where these officers work alone will allow them to do their job better and more effectively,” said the Prime Minister. “This continues to show that this Government believes in secure, efficient borders, and is getting things done for Canadian families and taxpayers.”