International Law

CBSA Officers

By immlawyer

A CBSA Enforcement Officer's job is inherently difficult. By definition he or she is dealing with potential infractions to Canada's immigration regime and has a mandate to uphold the integrity of the system. They see only the pathology and/or the 'bad apples' and it would be easy for them to become cynical and jaded.

It's a given that they will encounter, on a daily basis: war criminals; failed refugee claimants; individuals who are abusing the immigration system; people working without authorization; employers in non-compliance with IRPA; people that have overstayed their visitor visa; identity fraud; criminals who need to be removed from Canada; and, sometimes, simple dupes or other victims - among others.

While as lawyers we sometimes are in a somewhat adversarial position with CBSA, the officers here in Calgary are firm but generally fair. My encounter today with Darryl Zelisko was representative of my dealings with other officers. The officer was courteous and respectful with my client, but clear as to the repercussions with respect to his failure to attend at a secondary examination.  

We dealt with the warrant that was issued and the client was released on a cash bond and terms and conditions.

All in a day's work.

Full post as published by Canadian Immigration Blawg on May 26, 2010 (boomark / email).