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Airline Passenger Charged with Illegally Importing CFCs in Contravention of Environmental Regulations
TORONTO--January 4, 2001 - Kitson Thompson of Toronto, Ontario was charged on January 2nd, 2001, in the Ontario Court of Justice, Brampton with charges under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act and the Customs Act.
It is alleged that Mr. Thompson illegally imported an undeclared, thirty pound cylinder of chlorofuorocarbons (CFC's), on an Air Canada flight from Jamaica on January 3rd, 2000. CFC's are prohibited from import (with specific exemptions) under the "Ozone Depleting Substances Regulations" of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999.
The cylinder, which was discovered during a baggage examination by a customs officer, contravened the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, relating to safety requirements, standards and marks, and suitable means of containment.
The Customs Act charges relate to uttering a false statement and smuggling.
The first court appearance for the accused is Friday, February 2nd, 2001 in Ontario Court of Justice, Brampton.
Contravention of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act can result in a fine up to a maximum of $300,000 for a first offence. Contravention of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act can result in a maximum fine of $50,000 for a first offence. Customs Act violations can be punishable on summary conviction up to $50,000 for a first offence.
The charges were laid following a joint investigation by Environment Canada's Environmental Protection Branch, Ontario Regional Office and Canada Customs Investigations.
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Brad May
Environment Canada
Ph: (416) 739-5901
Bradley.May@ec.gc.ca
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Randall Moyle
Canada Customs Revenue Agency
Ph: 905-803-7800
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