Calgary, Alberta, August 20, 2007 -- Dave MacKenzie, Member of Parliament for Oxford, on behalf of the Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Stockwell Day, and U.S. Consul General Tom Huffaker today announced the opening of NEXUS kiosks at Calgary International Airport.
“Canada’s New Government is proud to announce that Calgary International Airport is now accepting NEXUS members,” said Mr. MacKenzie. “The NEXUS card not only serves as a secure alternative to a passport under the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative for travel by air, but allows NEXUS members to move quickly through the Canadian and U.S. border clearance processes.”
"We are pleased to be joining our Canadian partners to continue expanding this program," said U.S. Consul General Thomas Huffaker, who represented U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the event. “The expansion of NEXUS, as well as the recent launch of a new online application, make NEXUS an excellent option for eligible travelers. The bi-national commitment also underscores the strong desire by both countries to encourage cross-border travel."
Airports in Vancouver, Toronto, Montréal, Ottawa and Halifax already operate kiosks for over 130,000 NEXUS members, and the program is expected to begin operating soon in two more cities: Edmonton and Winnipeg.
"I am pleased to welcome the NEXUS program to Calgary International Airport," said Peter Wallis, Chairman of the Calgary Airport Authority. "As one of Canada's fastest growing airports, this new service is another great addition to our many innovative and customer-focused programs."
In the air mode, NEXUS uses iris recognition technology to identify the traveller and verify his or her membership in the program. NEXUS members can also use their cards to enter the United States by land and sea.
Applicants can now apply for a membership electronically, through the Global Online Enrollment System (GOES).
As well, NEXUS application forms are now available at Canada Post outlets across the country.
For more information, please visit the NEXUS Web site at www.nexus.gc.ca or call
1-866-NEXUS-26.
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For media information:
Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Stockwell Day
Minister of Public Safety
(613) 991-2863
CBSA Media Relations - Prairie Region (including the Northwest Territories)
