As Minister of Public Safey and Emergency Service, I have been taking swift action that will curb illegal border activities and strengthen the nation’s border security. New measures will immediately crack down on illegal migrants and drug trafficking across the border.
Alberta’s government has long recognized the need for additional capacity to patrol Alberta’s vulnerable international borders, where any amount of illegal activity is too much. I look forward to working with our partners in law enforcement and across government as we send a clear message to prospective offenders that criminal activity, such as fentanyl trafficking, will not be tolerated at our borders or anywhere else in our province.
A new Interdiction Patrol Team (IPT) within the Alberta Sheriffs will crack down on drug smuggling, gun trafficking, and other illegal activities occurring along Alberta’s 298-kilometre international boundary. This team will patrol to detect and intercept illicit drugs, illegal firearms, and unlawful attempts at illegal international border crossing.
To help build relationships with our American partners, I recently took a ministerial mission to Texas for several important meetings and learning opportunities. Along with Minister Amery, I met with officials from government, law enforcement, and non-government organizations in both Dallas and Austin to learn and exchange information on best practices in public safety, justice, and emergency management. Insights and information gathered over the course of these engagements may help inform the development of future policies, programs, and services in Alberta.
This was a great opportunity for me to represent Alberta, and, of course, Calgary-West, as I spoke about some of the great successes we have had at home when it comes to border security and building safer communities.
Through sharing experiences and strategies, we can enhance public safety and foster trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Mike Ellis MLA, Calgary-West
MLA – Calgary West Mike Ellis proudly serves the following Communities: Aspen Estates, Aspen Woods, Christie Park, Discovery Ridge, Signal Hill, Springbank Hill, Strathcona
