Using Canadian experience as a model, U.S. security chief turns attention to Mexico

WASHINGTON (March 13, 2002) — U.S. Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge said the way the U.S. southern border is managed is “outdated,” and that officials were making progress on a border security accord with Mexico similar to one reached with Canada in December.

Heavy traffic at border crossings has hurt businesses both in Mexico and the United States, and Ridge called for a new plan that would use technology to clear goods in factories, rail yards, and seaports instead of waiting until they reach the border.

Customs officials were also considering the possibility of screening and pre-approving cargo and people, giving them a “fast lane” across the border.

On Dec. 12, the U.S. and Canada signed a 30-point plan to improve security along their common border. Following a meeting with Ridge last week, Deputy Prime Minister John Manley declared there are “no more red-light issues out of the 30. There are no reds, there are still some yellows and we’ve moved a few of those to green,” Manley said. “We’re in very good shape.”

In February, Manley said the U.S. was especially concerned about a plan to “pre-clear” freight, allowing for speedier border crossings.

“We’ve made real progress on (that),” Manley said. “A lot of Canadian jobs depend upon it.”

Each of the 30 points is “either on or ahead of schedule,” Manley said, noting a detailed plan to maintain border trade and preserve jobs will be unveiled by Prime Minister Jean Chretien and President George W. Bush in June at the G-8 Summit in Kananaskis, Alta.