A dispute over legal protections for U.S. customs officials has kept Nexus enrollment centers in Canada closed more than three months after they reopened south of the border — in part because of a conflict over the right of U.S. agents to bring guns onto Canadian soil . The impasse has led to a massive backlog of applications for the program, which allows pre-approved travelers to cross the border more quickly. The Canada Border Services Agency reports that the number of Nexus applications has increased from 270,000 in April to more than 341,000 at a time when travel delays are wreaking havoc on travelers’ summer plans. Agency spokeswoman Rebecca Purdy says in an email that Canada and the U.S. remain “in discussions” about when the 13 interview registration centers will reopen as the two sides try to clarify “legal protections” for U.S. customs officials. while working in the jointly staffed centers. U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed the suspension revolves around legal protections for Nexus office staff, saying in an email “an example could include the authority to bring or have access to a firearm while on duty”. Two senior Canadian government sources told The Canadian Press that the U.S. wants its customs officers working at Nexus centers to be guaranteed the same protection as other pre-clearance officers on Canadian soil, with sidearms a major sticking point in the talks. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on July 22, 2022.
