U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump’s recent threat of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods has reinvigorated Delta’s long-standing call for law enforcement at the country’s ports. Mayor George Harvie expressed gratitude for Trump’s remarks, stating that they have refocused attention on the issue, which he believes is critical for national security.
Harvie and Delta City Council have repeatedly advocated for the re-establishment of port police since the Ports Canada Police were disbanded in 1997. Trump’s tariff threat, which hinges on controlling cross-border migration and drug trafficking, has given new urgency to the matter. Harvie emphasized the ongoing fentanyl crisis, citing both the export and import of the deadly drug, along with the need for more rigorous border control.
While praising the Canadian Border Services Agency for its efforts, Harvie voiced concern over recent federal budget cuts and the inefficiencies of the judicial system, pointing to recent drug busts where suspects were released soon after arrest.
Provincial leaders have also raised their voices on the issue. Premier David Eby reiterated the provincial government’s calls for port policing to control contraband and illegal drugs. The B.C. Conservative Party has supported the initiative, even suggesting a levy on containers to fund a dedicated port police force.
Harvie stressed that port policing is essential to combat drug-related issues, asserting that it falls under federal jurisdiction but requires a separate entity to tackle the multifaceted problem effectively. Despite some provincial backing, the mayor noted that the federal government has yet to take action, and he remains committed to pushing for the necessary changes.
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