Conceding to American Pressure–How Canadian

American fisherman were in uproar earlier this month when one of their own was fined $1000 for not reporting in to Canada’s CBSA (Customs and Border Services Agency) once he had crossed into Canada’s waters. By law you can’t cross in and fish without first contacting CBSA. From an article on Syracuse.com:

Andersen was acting under the long-standing belief by many Americans who have fished or enjoyed recreational boating on the river that as long as one doesn't anchor or set foot on Canadian land, there's no problem. Since the incident, Canadian customs officials have said that's not the case.

OUTRAGE! Americans rallied, even getting Representative Bill Owens involved and calling Canada’s Ambassador Gary Doer’s response “unacceptable”. A meeting with CBSA representatives didn’t resolve anything other than re-state the rules, and another article suggests that Canadians have it easier than their US counterparts when it comes to fishing rules.

In the end, Canada compromised and issued a statement announcing an amendment to the rules – fisherman can now call in via cell phone to CBSA when they cross into Canadian waters.

I’m conflicted on how this went down. On one hand, I’m actually very proud of Canada that we did the right thing and made concessions to our American neighbors. This is how two countries so close together should handle border issues.

On the other hand, I’m very frustrated that if this situation was reversed, it would never have gotten the same attention from our southern neighbor. In fact there are so many instances of injustice where people aren’t just fined but barred from entering the US, even after living and establishing a life there, that Canada’s quickness to move on this seems outrageous.

I’m thinking of writing Gary Doer myself, highlighting issues with the border we currently have and some possible solutions for them. If a bunch of American fishermen can whine and get what they want, I think some reciprocities on other items is due.