TIAC gives thumbs up to NEXUS improvements

New enhancements to the NEXUS program will accelerate the process of crossing the Canada-US border while maintaining security and public safety, according to the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC). Vic Toews, minister of Public Safety, announced earlier today that the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) would simplify the NEXUS renewal process and embark on a campaign to increase NEXUS membership. The new rules eliminate the onerous interview requirement for renewing cardholders who maintain their low-risk status and who have not made changes to their personal information. The changes are the latest in a series of initiatives to be implemented as part of the joint Canada-U.S. Action Plan on Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness (Beyond the Border). TIAC played an integral role in the Beyond the Border consultations and continues to liaise with the federal government on its implementation. “Trusted-traveller programs benefit both regular and occasional cross-border travellers and are essential to the movement of people beyond international borders in the 21st century,”said TIAC president David Goldstein. “Not only does NEXUS create a more efficient and enjoyable travel experience for regular travellers, but it shortens wait times for occasional visitors arriving in Canada as well. We look forward to the continued growth of the program.”