OTTAWA, October 12, 2004 -- The Government of Canada announced the transfer of certain functions between Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), effective October 8, 2004. When the CBSA was created last December, CIC's intelligence, interdiction and enforcement roles were transferred to the CBSA immediately. Immigration activities at borders and airports were not included at that time because the government decided to hold further consultations with stakeholders. As a result, the government has re aligned certain processes and responsibilities within CIC and the CBSA. Responsibility for pre-removal risk assessments returns to CIC, as this activity is more closely aligned with the protection aspect of CIC's mandate. In the interests of maintaining strict security and having a rigorous process focused on protecting Canadians, Security Certificates will now require the signatures of both the Minister of CIC and the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada (PSEPC). Finally, port of entry functions are transferred from CIC to the CBSA. "These decisions were made after comprehensive consultations with stakeholders across the country to ensure we continue to protect the interests of immigrants and refugees," said Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Judy Sgro. "We will continue to collaborate with the CBSA to serve the needs of newcomers and the best interests of Canada." The CBSA will now assume responsibility for the ongoing delivery of immigration operations at ports of entry, with CIC maintaining responsibility for functional guidance and policy development. The addition of port of entry functions is an important milestone in the CBSA's transition to a more efficient and effective management of border operations. "The creation of the CBSA and PSEPC portfolio on December 12 has been a success. These modifications build on that success and demonstrate the Government of Canada's commitment to ensure the safety and security of Canadians," said Deputy Prime Minister and Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Minister Anne McLellan. The Government of Canada's decision to group similar activities under each of the two departments has been made with the best interests of Canadians in mind. It is based on the dual intent of facilitating the entry of people and goods to Canada, while ensuring stringent control of our borders and the safety and security of Canadians. Stakeholders agree that the way the immigration program is administered at ports of entry is more important than where responsibility for the program lies. The transfers allow CIC to focus on citizenship, selection, settlement and integration of immigrants while also offering Canada's protection to those in need. CIC will continue to issue visas and develop admissibility policies for immigrants, refugees and temporary residents. The public may also be assured that the seamless and professional way that travellers are dealt with at our borders will continue following the transfer of functions. CIC and the CBSA will continue building a strong, collaborative partnership to provide high quality service to Canadians, newcomers and visitors. - 30 - For media information: Michel Proulx Media Relations Canada Border Services Agency (613) 948-3193 Alex Swann Office of the Deputy Prime Minister Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada (613) 991-2863 Enrico del Castello Media Relations Citizenship and Immigration (613) 941-7075 France Bureau Minister's Office Citizenship and Immigration (613) 992-7774
