The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) welcomes the introduction of Bill C-2: the Strong Borders Act  which aims to fortify the safety and security of Canada, including reinforcing the integrity of its borders. It also reflects numerous longstanding recommendations from the policing community aimed at supporting law enforcement across the country.

The proposed Bill demonstrates a commitment to modernizing legislation and equipping law enforcement with necessary tools to combat transnational organized crime in an increasingly complex threat environment. In particular, the Bill sets out several important law amendments which will address systemic vulnerabilities within the justice system, providing critical tools for law enforcement, border services and intelligence agencies.

Canada’s legislation related to lawful access is significantly outdated and urgently needs to be revised to align with modern technology. Canada lags behind its international law enforcement partners in the ability to lawfully access electronic evidence associated to criminal activity. Transnational organised crime groups are exploiting this gap to victimize our communities across the country through serious crimes such as human, drug and firearm trafficking, auto theft, and violent profit-driven crime. The provisions contained within the Strong Borders Act are an important step in advancing Canadian law enforcement’s ability to effectively combat the ever-evolving nature of transnational organized criminal groups.

The legislation also proposes to enhance anti-money laundering supervision and compliance, and promote better information sharing, which is an important move towards disrupting the laundering of profits from organized crime. Equally important is the ability for law enforcement, when authorized by the courts, to intercept contraband, firearms, alcohol, counterfeit items and dangerous drugs, including fentanyl and other opioids, being sent through the mail. Furthermore, the Bill proposes an amendment to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act regarding the addition of drug precursors, which would directly impact the manufacturing of fentanyl and other deadly illicit drugs in our communities.

The CACP is encouraged by the proposed measures to strengthen the mandate of the Canada Border Services Agency and the Canadian Coast Guard to ensure border security. When coupled with bolstered law enforcement authorities, this has the potential to considerably harden Canada’s borders from the illicit activities of criminal actors. Additionally, the steps towards improved information sharing will support cross-border and international criminal investigations. Together, these proposals will promote more efficient investigative mechanisms and robust border security measures.

The CACP commends the federal government’s demonstrated commitment to public safety through the advancement of legislative changes. We remain committed to working closely with the government to implement legislation that effectively bolsters community safety and reduces victimization and harms in our communities. We look forward to further dialogue and collaboration as the Bill proceeds and will continue to advocate for legislative change that protects the safety of Canadians. 

Commissioner Thomas Carrique
President