The federal government has unveiled a new initiative to enhance border security in New Brunswick. Wayne Long, the MP for Saint John-Kennebecasis, revealed the plan at the Woodstock-Houlton border on Friday. Commencing in the fiscal year 2025-26, the government is allocating $617 million over a span of five years for this border strategy, which is part of the upcoming budget scheduled for tabling on Nov. 4.
Emphasizing the significance of safeguarding the nation’s safety and security, Long highlighted the critical nature of this funding for bolstering border protection. As the secretary of state for the Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions, Long stressed the evolving risks in today’s world, underscoring the imperative to fortify the border and uphold national sovereignty.
The allocated funds will be utilized to recruit 1,000 additional officers for the Canada Border Services Agency, supplementing the existing 10,000 border personnel. Long described this financial commitment as the most substantial investment in border security in Canadian history. The initiative also encompasses measures to enhance recruitment efforts.
Noteworthy modifications include raising the stipend for CBSA recruits during training from $125 to $525 per week, a rate unchanged since 2005. Furthermore, amendments to the Public Service Superannuation Act will grant retirement options to workers after 25 years of service, irrespective of age, extending to various professionals such as parliamentary protection officers, search and rescue personnel, federal and territorial firefighters, paramedics, and correctional officers.
Long positioned this announcement within a broader framework of a comprehensive border strategy aimed at curbing drug trafficking, firearm proliferation, and criminal activities to ensure community safety. Addressing concerns raised by the U.S. regarding drug trafficking and fentanyl, Long reiterated the government’s commitment to combating these threats.
Although the specific allocation of new officers for New Brunswick remains pending, Long assured increased support for the Port of Saint John. Sylvie Cormier, the superintendent at the Woodstock point of entry, anticipated positive effects at the Woodstock-Houlton border, citing the critical need for additional personnel to bolster security measures and prevent illicit activities.
Despite a recent decline in traffic at the land crossing, Cormier noted a slight uptick following the removal of Canadian tariffs but highlighted the ongoing necessity for more border officers. Data from Statistics Canada revealed a 5.3% decrease in U.S. residents’ trips to Canada in September compared to the previous year, marking the eighth consecutive month of year-over-year declines.