‘I'm just delighted.’

Those three words describe the feelings of Provencher Member of Parliament Ted Falk, in announcing what he learned Monday afternoon. Falk says he received confirmation from the office of the Minister of Public Safety that they will review the decision to reduce the hours at the border ports of Tolstoi, South Junction and Piney.

“No changes will be happening until the proper community consultation has taken place,” announced Falk.

He says that is exactly what was asked to Canada Border Services Agency at town hall meetings two weeks ago.

“I think this is terrific news for now,” says Falk. "We just need to make sure that all of the residents and stakeholders are going to be engaged when those community consultations do happen, so that we can have proper input and that they get the feedback they need to make the right decision."

Canada Border Services Agency had indicated that beginning November 26th, hours of operation at Tolstoi would be 8 am to 8 pm during the summer and 8 am to 6 pm between Labour Day and Victoria Day. Currently, the Tolstoi crossing is open from 8 am to 10 pm. At South Junction, the new hours were supposed to be 8 am to 8 pm, instead of 8 am to midnight, as is currently offered. And, at Piney, the new hours were supposed to be 9 am to 5 pm, where currently that crossing is open from 9 am to 10 pm.

Falk says it appears the economic and social impact on residents living in those communities was never considered when the decision to reduce the hours was made. He notes the collective voice of residents at the town hall meetings as well as lobbying from local politicians appears to have paid off. 

There is no word on when community consultation meetings will be held.

Read More:

Falk Unhappy That CBSA Is Not Listening

Full House For Piney Border Meeting