ADVISORY - Information on the Canada – U.S. Beyond the Border Working Group

ADVISORY

Information on the Canada – U.S. Beyond the Border Working Group

The Governments of Canada and the United States of America have established a working group that will examine ways to streamline border security while harmonizing regulations to smooth procedures for trade and improve cross border travel. The work of this committee may have implications for First Nation citizens, especially those in close proximity to the border.

The Beyond the Border Working Group (BBWG) is currently seeking input from First Nation governments as well as industry and non-governmental organizations. The working group is soliciting comments and suggestions on how to improve the flow of people, goods and information across the US-Canada border.  The Working Group’s area of focus falls under four pillars: addressing threats, trade facilitation, integrated law enforcement and infrastructure.

The US-Canada Beyond the Border declaration is silent on Indigenous nations, the border crossing rights of First Nation citizens and challenges faced by First Nation communities divided by the border. The work of the committee does not address issues related to ceremonial objects, eagle feathers and sacred medicines. Given the lack of consultation with First Nations up to this point, the AFN encourages First Nations to make their voices heard. The AFN plans to provide a written submission outlining First Nation concerns and priorities in relation to border crossing, in the expectation that the drafters of the Border Action Plan will take into account First Nation concerns and priorities.

The following excerpt from the Border Action Plan website outlines the public consultation process:

The Government of Canada has resumed its public consultations on the Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness, and has extended the public consultation period until June 3, 2011. Canadians are invited to submit their input.
The working group wants to hear from you on ways to preserve and extend the benefits the close relationship between Canada and the United States has helped bring to Canadians and Americans alike. Your input will inform the development of a joint action plan for perimeter security and economic competitiveness.
From now through to June 3, 2011, you can participate in our online consultation and provide your thoughts on initiatives that would improve security while supporting economic competitiveness, job creation and prosperity.
Your input will inform the development of a joint action plan for perimeter security and economic competitiveness (http://www.borderactionplan-plandactionfrontalier.gc.ca/psec-scep/consultations-consultations.aspx?lang=eng0).

Please note that the deadline to submit your comments is June 3, 2011. You can submit your comments online at:
https://www.borderactionplan-plandactionfrontalier.gc.ca/psec-scep/comments-commentaires.aspx?lang=eng

Or you can send your views by mail to:
Beyond the Border Working Group
235 Queen Street, Office 1020C
Ottawa ON K1A 0H5

Or by email to:
border@ic.gc.ca

If you have any questions, please contact the AFN at 613-241-6789 ext 237 or jtomiak@afn.ca.