Open letter to all Federal candidates this election !!
Apr 12, 2011 | 0 Comments
To: (Federal Election Candidate)
Fr: (you)
Border Security is becoming a key platform topic this election. Here in Nova Scotia, over 200 people work for the Canada Border Services Agency, whose mandate is to protect Canadian security and prosperity by managing the flow of people and goods coming into Canada.
The employees of this agency are dedicated, proud, and well trained to meet these ever changing demands that are put upon them. Here in Nova Scotia, these people work at our airports, sea ports, and offices from Yarmouth to Sydney.
Recently, CBSA in Ottawa decided that Nova Scotia would lose both jobs and services right here in our province. Trade Compliance, a division that ensured importers and exporters met the regulations for the movement of international goods, was shut down in Nova Scotia. These positions were shut down on the basis of saving money, only for new positions to open in Montreal.
CBSA also has three targeting units in Halifax, which is vital for the interdiction of illegal goods and people entering the country. These officers have intimate knowledge of what to look for and how to prevent international threats from entering through Nova Scotia. Recently, these officers were informed that their positions would be moving to Ottawa. We will be losing a valuable asset in maintaining border integrity. Many people forget that Nova Scotia has one of the longest international borders in the country. We have approximately 2000 km of coastline that is open to commercial and private vessels from all over the world. The job of Border Services Officers is challenging enough, and losing these vital positions takes away from the safety and security that we Canadians sometimes take for granted.
In late 2009, the ferry service between Yarmouth and Maine was ceased after funding was pulled by the province of Nova Scotia. Many dedicated Border Services Officers, among with others in the industry, have been left with a feeling of uncertainty about their jobs. Although the ferry was a major component, those officers also perform many other services for small vessels, commercial functions, and client service. Their jobs are vital for the protection of our country, plus for the economy of the region. Funding for the ferry should be a federal concern, and should be made a priority for all elected officials in Nova Scotia.
In closing, please consider what you have read here. During this election campaign, take the side of stability, security, and safety for all Canadians and their families.
Best regards,
(name) (constituency)