OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Jan. 26, 2011) -
Editors note: Two Photos are included with this press release on Marketwire's website.
Today, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) marks International Customs Day to recognize the contribution of customs services in making Canada's border safe and secure. Guided by the theme "Knowledge, a catalyst for Customs excellence," this year's International Customs Day will be devoted to promoting knowledge, learning, management development and professional training.
Celebrated each year on January 26, this special day recognizes the efforts of the men and women working in customs organizations worldwide and their role in ensuring that communities remain safe, secure and prosperous. This tradition provides a great opportunity to recognize the excellent work carried out each day by CBSA officers across Canada, all of whom play a vital role in contributing to the security and prosperity of our country.
"Our border services officers are on the front lines of Canada's security, and their work is instrumental in the safety of our communities and economic prosperity of our country," said Minister Toews. "This International Customs Day, we recognize the outstanding work of Canada's border services officers in preventing harmful goods and inadmissible people from entering our country, while facilitating legitimate trade and travel."
The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports International Customs Day. The WCO is an independent intergovernmental body whose mission is to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of customs administrations. With 177 member governments, it is the only intergovernmental worldwide organization competent in customs matters.
"The CBSA exemplifies this celebration by consistently proving to be a world leader in coordinated border management," said Luc Portelance, CBSA President. "CBSA officers exemplify service excellence in their every day interactions with the public, other governments and law enforcement partners around the world."
The CBSA's role in protecting society is evident in its enforcement results. In 2010, CBSA officers at approximately 1,200 points across Canada made 26,747 seizures, including over 10,000 narcotic seizures, over 1,790 currency seizures, 101 child pornography seizures and over 2,500 firearms and weapons seizures. In addition, CBSA officers made 6,170 arrests for Criminal Code offences and removed 15,205 individuals from Canada – further ensuring the safety of our communities.
In 2010, CBSA officers also facilitated the entry of over 85 million travelers at all points of entry across Canada, including 22.4 million people at international airports and 59.7 million people at the 119 land border crossings. Finally, CBSA officers across the country processed over 12.8 million shipments into Canada.
The day may be marked in different ways throughout the CBSA, but the message is the same. Our employees do valuable work, perform an important public service and their dedication is truly appreciated.
To view the photos associated with this press release, please visit the following links:
Contact Information: CBSA
Media Relations
613-957-6500