This article explores the challenges faced by RCMP officers patrolling the Canada-U.S. border in the wake of heightened political tensions. It highlights the impact of President Trump's policies on border security and the evolving landscape of asylum-seeking.
Uncertainty hangs heavy in the air for Mounties patrolling the Canada-U.S. border, a flashpoint in the increasingly strained bilateral relationship. CBC News shadowed one officer for hours earlier this week to gain insight into the challenges they face in this volatile political climate. A sign warns against illegal border crossings from Canada into the U.S., but the RCMP reports that these incidents are occurring regularly. Sgt.
Daniel Dubois, responsible for a 168-kilometer stretch along the Quebec-New York border, faces the constant threat of illegal crossings in addition to the harsh weather conditions of frigid temperatures and strong winds. Whenever news breaks about President Trump's latest pronouncements on immigration, it inevitably casts a shadow over Dubois's work. 'Of course it's going to concern us,' he admitted, highlighting the inherent anxiety that permeates his role.Earlier this week, CBC News accompanied Dubois for four hours on a stormy day, observing his patrols through his designated area, waiting for tips, and meticulously checking known crossing points for fresh footprints. The constant barrage of news alerts detailing the latest developments from the U.S. administration regarding the border served as a stark reminder of the political climate's pervasive influence. While Dubois maintains a stoic professionalism, stating, 'My job is not to have an opinion on migration. My job is to make sure people are safe,' the pressure of managing a high-profile border stretch, including staffing decisions, is undeniably significant. 'Who can plan if it's going to be different tomorrow?' he rhetorically questioned, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the situation. Despite the added stress, the heightened political scrutiny has also resulted in increased resources being allocated to the Canadian border. In an effort to appease President Trump and mitigate the potential economic repercussions, the Canadian government has committed $1.3 billion to strengthen border security and disrupt southbound migration.This investment includes equipping the RCMP with advanced technology like helicopters, drones, and other surveillance equipment. Dubois acknowledges the benefits of these resources, but stresses the importance of continuous monitoring and coordination. 'It's like a big dance — everyone and everything has to follow the same motion in order to make it work. Technology is just one of those things.' The President's swift action to implement his campaign promises, particularly those concerning immigration, with raids and deportations, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. While northbound crossings remain an almost daily occurrence ('Business is constant,' Dubois observes), the uncertainty lies in the potential for increased numbers. 'We do have plans, contingency plans in case something ever happens, but now we're all wondering what the next phase is going to be like,' Dubois stated, highlighting the pervasive sense of apprehension. As the snow falls relentlessly, Dubois drives down what is arguably Canada's most infamous rural road: Roxham Road. Two concrete blocks and a ditch mark the boundary between the two nations, but the road offers an almost direct path to the United States. During Trump's first term, Roxham Road became synonymous with a migrant crisis as tens of thousands of asylum seekers used the unofficial crossing point, thrusting the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA) into the public consciousness. The STCA, which allowed Canada to turn back asylum seekers attempting to enter from the U.S. only at official border crossings, became a focal point of debate. Asylum seekers could still enter at unofficial crossings to make their claims, and they did so in large numbers starting in 2017 following stricter immigration policies implemented in the United States. Dubois points to the location where the RCMP previously maintained detention facilities. The site, now empty and covered in snow, stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of border security. The structures were dismantled in 2023 after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and former U.S. President Joe Biden revised the STCA to encompass the entire land border. Under the updated agreement, migrants can claim asylum in Canada if they successfully enter the country and remain undetected for 14 days. The RCMP continues to patrol near the Quebec-New York border, often facing treacherous weather conditions, while searching for individuals attempting to cross illegally. Dubois expressed concern that the revised STCA might lead asylum seekers to venture into more dangerous and remote areas to avoid detection, further complicating their already challenging mission
CANADA-U.S. BORDER RCMP IMMIGRATION ASYLUM SEEKERS SAFE THIRD COUNTRY AGREEMENT TRUMP ADMINISTRATION BORDER SECURITY
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
US Border Patrol Agent Killed in Vermont Shooting Near Canada BorderA U.S. Border Patrol agent was fatally shot during a traffic stop in Vermont on Monday, authorities said. The shooting occurred near the Canada-US border, and two other individuals were also affected. Federal and state authorities are investigating the incident.
Read more »
Border fence erected along stretch of Canada-U.S. border now taken down'Specifically, I felt that this type of fence, barrier, wall (whatever you want to call it) did not symbolize the trust that our two countries have shared for decades.'
Read more »
Crypto Market Consolidates at $3.19 Trillion, Uncertainty ReignsThe cryptocurrency market is experiencing a period of consolidation, with traders awaiting clearer signals from macroeconomic trends. The Fear and Greed Index has dropped to Neutral, reflecting a cooling sentiment after weeks of volatility. Market analysts suggest that price movements may remain range-bound in the near term unless a significant catalyst emerges.
Read more »
Canada Deploys Helicopters and Drones to Strengthen U.S.-Canada Border SecurityCanada is bolstering security along its border with the U.S. by deploying helicopters, drones, and advanced surveillance technology. Public Safety Minister David McGuinty announced these measures, citing a significant drop in illegal crossings since June 2024 due to visa restrictions.
Read more »
Canada Rents Office Space to Process Asylum Seekers at US-Canada BorderFollowing Trump's election and crackdown on immigration, Canada is renting office space near the New York-Quebec border to process asylum seekers crossing from the US. This move comes as a response to potential surges in asylum seekers following Trump's policies.
Read more »
Black Friday Reigns Supreme as Busiest Shopping Day in CanadaNew data reveals that Black Friday reclaimed its title as the busiest shopping day in Canada during the 2024 holiday season. Consumers may have shopped early to avoid delays caused by the Canada Post strike, pushing Black Friday ahead of pre-Christmas shopping days. Cyber Monday also saw a significant rise in activity, ranking as the 10th busiest day. Despite a temporary tax holiday, total holiday spending increased by only two percent compared to the previous year.
Read more »