As the Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay–Rainy River, I support the Canada Border Services Agency’s decision to end the Remote Area Border Crossing (RABC) program.
For many years, this program has been a source of frustration for residents in my riding. While the vast majority of cross-border travellers respect our laws, the RABC program created a system that relied heavily on trust rather than verification. In today’s security environment, that is no longer acceptable.
Canadians expect their borders to be secure, fairly enforced, and properly monitored. We must be vigilant against criminal activity, including human trafficking, smuggling, and the illegal movement of firearms into Canada. Border controls exist for a reason, and Canada—not any foreign government—must determine how and where our borders are crossed.
The CBSA has made clear that the RABC program will end on September 14, 2026. After that date, all travellers entering Canada through remote areas of northern Ontario or from the Northwest Angle into southern Manitoba will be required to report to a port of entry or a designated telephone reporting site. This change brings Canada’s approach more in line with modern border security practices while still allowing lawful access through clear and accountable reporting mechanisms.
I recognize that some American property owners and businesses have benefited from the RABC program. I recognize there are some Americans who own cottages on the Canadian side of the border and this program is beneficial to them, my office will be willing to work with them. However, access to Canada must never come at the expense of enforcement, fairness, or public safety. Canadians who live and work in border communities deserve to know who is entering our country and for what purpose.
A secure border is not anti-trade, anti-tourism, or anti-neighbour. It is pro-rule of law. Canada values its relationship with the United States, but that relationship must be based on mutual respect and respect for sovereignty.
Canada controls its borders—and no one else does.
– Marcus Powlowski, MP Thunder Bay–Rainy River
