OTTAWA — A new perimeter security deal between Canada and the United States will come with a billion-dollar price tag.
The Canadian Press has learned that the Conservative government will use money cut from existing programs to cover the cost of new border facilities and programs to make trade and travel smoother.
It’s an attempt to protect the continent from terrorist threats while speeding the flow of people and products across the 49th parallel.
Sources say the deal falls short of the grand vision outlined with great fanfare eight months ago by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and U.S. President Barack Obama.
There are no immediate plans for a marquee announcement of the agreement – to be unfurled this month.
That’s because the Prime Minister’s Office has not been able to persuade the White House to make Obama available.
Canadian officials are heading to Washington this weekend to make a final pitch for a public signing ceremony.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Glenn Matthews at glenn.matthews@siskinds.com or call 519-672-2121.
