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News Release
National 2005
New Act Establishes the Canada Border Services Agency
Ottawa, November 3, 2005 - The Honourable Anne McLellan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, today welcomed the Royal Assent of Bill C-26, An Act to Establish the Canada Border Services Agency.
This legislation formally establishes the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) as a corporate body and defines its mandate, powers and authorities. The Agency is responsible for providing integrated border services that support national security and public safety priorities and facilitate the free flow of persons and goods.
As part of the 2005 Budget, additional funding of $433 million to the CBSA over five years will support the priorities of national security and a strong economy. The CBSA will hire an additional 270 border officers over five years.
"The passage of this new Act by Parliament is an important component of our national security blueprint for action, as outlined in Canada's National Security Policy," said Minister McLellan. "The creation of the Canada Border Services Agency demonstrates our ongoing commitment to ensuring our country's security and prosperity and to effectively managing the movement of people and goods to and from Canada."
This Act builds on Bill C-6, which provided the legislative framework for the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada (PSEPC).
The Minister thanked all Parliamentarians for their comprehensive work on this legislation, which sets a foundation so that Canadians continue to benefit from an efficient and secure border.
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Media Relations
Canada Border Services Agency
(613) 957-6500
Alex Swann
Office of the Honourable Anne McLellan
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
(613) 991-2863
