From Nationalpost · · 1m
First Nation pushes back on U.S. border access
Mohawk Council chief says Canadian waters are being reclaimed from U.S. border agents.
In brief
Mohawk Council chief says Canadian waters are being reclaimed from U.S. border agents. Mohawk Council of Akwesasne chief Leonard Lazore states they will reclaim St. Lawrence River waters from U.S. border agents under a temporary exemption. Originally reported by Nationalpost.
First Nation chief warns
Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Grand Chief Leonard Lazore states they will reclaim St. Lawrence River waters from U.S. border agents.
“We’re not going to be asking permission”
Temporary exemption allows access
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has a temporary exemption to move through Canadian waters for border security.
“The temporary ministerial Firearms Act Exemption Order issued on Sept. 16 will support the safe and effective management of a geographically and jurisdictionally complex border area while maintaining Canada’s commitment to strong border security and public safety.”
Waterway access details
CBP officers can traverse 2.8 kilometres of the St. Lawrence River west of Kana:takon to the mouth of the St. Regis River.
“It does allow CBP officers "carrying firearms, which are to remain secured and covered" to traverse approximately 2.8 kilometres of the St. Lawrence on the Canadian side of the border west of Kana:takon (St. Regis Village, Que.) to "the mouth of the St. Regis River for the sole purpose of reaching the U.S. portion" of the waterway in upstate New York”
Reclamation plan
Mohawk Council plans to establish an internal framework and invest in technology for local police to protect waters with Canadian and U.S. authorities.
“We’re taking over our waters. If we need any help, we’ll contact you. But until then, we have authority in here.”
Waterway navigability
Only the first couple of kilometres of the St. Lawrence River are deep enough and wide enough for boat navigation.
“While the waterway extends well into the state, Lazore said only the first couple of kilometres are deep enough and wide enough to be navigable by boat.”
What matters most
Mohawk Council of Akwesasne chief Leonard Lazore states they will reclaim St. Lawrence River waters from U.S. border agents under a temporary exemption.
