One issue that hasn’t been subject of much election discussion, but will certainly impact the lives of Canadians, is the proposed Canada-U.S. security perimeter.

On Feb. 4, Canada and the U.S. issued a declaration committing both countries to create a North American Security Perimeter. Borders are to be “open” to legitimate travellers and trade, and “closed” to criminals and “terrorist elements.” Following the terrorist attacks of Sept, 11, 2001, the U.S. heightened its border security, resulting in greater costs for Canadian manufacturers.

The security perimeter is supposed to create economic gains by removing regulatory barriers, harmonizing rules, and reducing border congestion for manufacturers.

Both governments have appointed officials to constitute a “Beyond the Border Working Group” that will hammer out the details on addressing threats early, economic growth and jobs, integrated cross-border law enforcement, and critical infrastructure and cross-border security.

Because increased information-sharing and integrated law enforcement and border security measures are all envisioned, the details of the security perimeter are crucial from a civil liberties perspective.

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