Statement by the Minister of Public Safety on the boarding of the vessel MV Sun Sea

August 13, 2010 — The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, made the following statement regarding the boarding of the foreign vessel MV Sun Sea in Canadian territorial waters by members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and supported by the Canadian Forces and the Canada Border Services Agency.

“Human smuggling is a despicable crime and any attempted abuses of our nation’s generosity for financial gain are utterly unacceptable.

“Those aboard this vessel will be processed by Canada Border Services Agency officials under Canadian law. As the process continues, more updates will be available. However, for legal reasons, and for the operational security of our law-enforcement officers, I cannot comment further at this time.

“Let me be clear on this point: human smuggling, illegal migration or any other abuses of Canada’s immigration system can not and will not be tolerated. As we deal with this current situation under Canadian law, Canadian officials will look at all available options to strengthen our laws in order to address this unacceptable abuse of international law and Canadian generosity.”

Information:

Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657