Prime Minister Mark Carney has unveiled new measures aimed at strengthening Canada’s border security and enhancing public safety across the country.
Speaking in the Niagara Region, Carney said the federal government will hire 1,000 new Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers to combat the movement of illegal guns, drugs, and stolen goods, while improving enforcement at air, land, rail, and marine ports of entry.
The government will also raise CBSA recruit stipends for the first time since 2005-from $125 to $525 per week-to help attract and retain the next generation of officers. In addition, the Public Service Superannuation Act will be amended to allow frontline responders, including CBSA officers, firefighters, and paramedics, to retire after 25 years of service without pension reductions.
“These measures will help secure our sovereignty, combat crime, and build safer communities,” Carney said. “Together, we are building Canada strong.”
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne called the new investments a critical step in shielding Canadians from illegal trafficking and protecting domestic industries. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree added that the funding will ensure the CBSA has the resources needed to carry out its mandate.
The measures come ahead of Budget 2025, set to be tabled on November 4, which will include further investments in border security and law enforcement.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
