Canada Border Services Agency Opens New State-Of-The-Art Training Facility in Rigaud

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 15, 2012) - Canada's Public Safety Minister, Vic Toews, along with Senator Jean-Guy Dagenais, announced today the official opening of a new training facility for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in Rigaud, Quebec.

"Our government is committed to ensuring the security of our borders and the safety of Canada's streets and communities," said Minister Toews. "The $57.5 million that we have invested in this facility is essential to ensuring that we continue to keep Canadian families safe through training and arming officers at land and marine ports of entry, as well as those carrying out enforcement activities.

The newly expanded CBSA College will enable the delivery of exceptional training so that border services officers continue to protect the health and security of Canadians while ensuring the free flow of legitimate trade and travel.

"Our government is focused on jobs, growth and long-term prosperity. We are proud to deliver the necessary investment in this facility to help ensure the safety and security of the millions of Canadians who travel and trade across our border." said Senator Dagenais.

The construction of the new facility at Rigaud created approximately 250 jobs. The CBSA College includes simulation rooms with PRISim simulators, which help train border services officers to deal with a broad range of response options. It also contains two 18-lane firing ranges, a hangar, and a multifunction complex with classrooms.

"This state-of-the-art facility is a flagship operation for us. Managing the border in today's complex world calls on our people to use a variety of skills and technology efficiently and effectively behind the scenes and when dealing directly with traders and travellers. The college is key to our ability to perform our duties in providing excellence in border services," said Luc Portelance, President of the CBSA.

As part of the CBSA's Arming Program, there are currently 2,142 armed officers that have been trained and deployed throughout the country.