Border Crossing Closures Report ‘Entirely False’
(Aldo Santin – Winnipeg Free Press)
Toews insists talks only looking at ways to keep them open
Manitoba’s senior federal MP said there is no truth to media reports several border crossings in the province could be closed or have their hours of operation reduced – even though a document states those discussions between Canadian and American officials have been ongoing for 18 months.
Public Safety Minister Vic Toews, who is responsible for the Canada Border Services Agency, said he’s been involved in discussions with senior U.S. officials aimed at protecting smaller border crossings and ensuring they remain open.
“No such discussions are taking place and in fact the allegations… are entirely false,” Toews said.
However, documents from the Small Port Working Group within U.S. Customs and Border protection that were leaked to the media, identify 11 small border crossings in Manitoba that are being reviewed, and Piney, Snowflake and Crystal City are being considered for closing. Read more here.
Date: December 19, 2011
