Border crossing, disputed in Akwesasne protest, may be closed

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June 7, 2009

Anonymous The Press Republican Sun Jun 07, 2009, 02:54 PM EDT

OTTAWA (CP) -- The federal public safety minister says a border crossing in eastern Ontario might be shut permanently unless Mohawks accept a decision to arm border guards.

Peter Van Loan says the government is examining all options, including moving the port of entry that now links Cornwall, Ont., and Massena.

Appearing Sunday on CTV's Question Period, he refused to say when a decision would be made.

Canada Border Services Agency workers left their posts on Cornwall Island, citing safety concerns, just before midnight May 31 in advance of an Akwesasne Mohawk demonstration.

The Seaway International Bridge, which spans the St. Lawrence River, handles about 2.4 million passengers annually.

Mohawk protesters say they're worried that arming guards with handguns could lead to violence on their land.

Van Loan notes that giving customs officers guns was a promise made by the Conservatives in the 2006 election campaign _ and no exception will be made for the Cornwall Island crossing.

``They'll have to accept armed border officers there,'' he told CTV.

``What we're looking at is a potential long closing, and as a result we are right now examining the long-term viability of that particular port of entry.

``We're exploring all options, and that includes moving it.''

For the time being, travelers have been advised to use a point of entry at Prescott, which is 60 kilometres west, or the Dundee crossing, which is 17 kilometres southeast.