News
Canada’s Airports urge swift passage of Customs Act amendments

Feb. 15, 2008 Ottawa – The Canadian Airports Council today urged
the government to swiftly pass amendments to the Customs Act tabled today in
the House of Commons – amendments Canada's airports say will both improve
border security and the efficient passage of travellers through Canada's
borders.
       
"Canada is part of a globally integrated economy for trade and tourism
and a secure and efficient border is essential to ensuring Canadian
competitiveness in the world today," said CAC President and CEO Jim Facette.
"The Customs Act amendments tabled today are an important step toward this
goal by ensuring our border officials have the flexibility they need to
evaluate and detect potential risks while allowing legitimate travellers and
shipments to enter Canada more efficiently."
       
In particular, Canada's airports support a key component of the Customs
Act amendments tabled today that allow for the implementation of "Customs
Controlled Areas." These would expand the jurisdiction of the Canada Border
Services Agency to a larger area of the international arrivals area than the
current limited responsibility for only certain designated exit points.
       
"Maintaining secure and efficient borders in the world today requires a
modern and flexible border environment," said Mr. Facette. "We encourage
parliamentarians to quickly pass this important piece of legislation."