AKWESASNE – The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) has announced that they have developed a new border crossing plan in partnership with the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA).
The MCA states that the plan will improve the lives of those who cross the border between Cornwall and Akwesasne daily and that there are short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals, some of which are already being implemented.
“MCA and CBSA have taken steps in the past year to forge ahead on a new, positive path that is mutually beneficial,” said Grand Chief Abram Benedict. “Through this shared desire to improve the border experience, we’ve developed plans together for tangible improvements and long-term changes. Consideration of a domestic lane, improved communication, and dialogue on matters that affect Akwesasronon are just some of the components of the initiative.”
Some of the strategies that have already been implemented include increasing the service capacity at the Port of Entry. Long term goals include improved processing for domestic travelers.
“This innovative approach is of particular significance for us, as it is the first time the CBSA has used Designed Thinking in a Nation-to-Nation context. A positive relationship with Indigenous Peoples is a priority for our Agency, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Mohawks of Akwesasne First Nation and other communities near ports of entry to address challenges and leverage opportunities with border crossing,” said CBSA President John Ossowski.
