NEWS RELEASES

May 19, 2000 (1:00 p.m. EDT) No. 110

AXWORTHY WELCOMES INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION IN U.S. CONGRESS ON BORDER CONTROLS

Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy welcomed today the introduction of legislation in the U.S. Congress that would amend Section 110 of the U.S. Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 and eliminate the requirement for new entry-exit controls at U.S. ports of entry.

"Canadians and Americans have stated clearly that they want a border that is tailored to our unique relationship and traditions. This reflects the impact the border has on the every day lives of our citizens. We welcome this step forward, which recognizes our shared interest in effective border management and reinforces the spirit of co-operation between our two countries," said Minister Axworthy.

The Immigration and Naturalization Service Data Management Improvement Act of 2000, introduced on May 18, 2000, by Senate Immigration Subcommittee Chairman Spencer Abraham and House Immigration and Claims Subcommittee Chairman Lamar Smith appears to have widespread bi-partisan support.

"The Canada-US Partnership (CUSP), established by Prime Minister Chrétien and President Clinton last October, is working toward a common vision of border management. We want to solve issues such as Section 110 before they occur. Barriers between friends are not the answer," said Minister Axworthy

If passed by Congress, this new legislation would maintain the status quo at the border and avoid new documentary requirements for Canadians that would disrupt $1.7 billion in bilateral trade per day, and the more than 200 million travellers who cross the border every year.

The proposed bill to amend Section 110 would establish an electronic system for managing information currently collected by U.S. immigration officials. The bill would also require the U.S. Administration to establish private-public task forces to evaluate, among other things, how the flow of cross-border traffic can be improved, and to consult with affected foreign governments to enhance border management co-operation.

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Debora Brown

Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs

(613) 995-1851

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

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