Because this information is relevant to our broader subscriber base, we have also included our Employment and Labour Law Newsletter subscribers.
This bulletin will be of interest to companies that have personnel travelling by air for business purposes. It outlines new procedures at Canadian airports that have been adopted due to the recent terrorist plot discovered in the United Kingdom. Similar procedures have been adopted at airports outside Canada. Personnel should be made aware of the new security measures as these measures may cause significant delays at airports and ports of entry and increase the time required to clear customs. If you have any questions, please contact our immigration practice group for further assistance.
Increased security measures announced for airports and air travel following a major counter-terrorism operation in the UK - Full text of Transport Canada News Release dated August 10, 2006
The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety and the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced increased security at all Canadian airports following a major counter-terrorism operation in the United Kingdom. Individuals in the United Kingdom were allegedly intent on committing acts of terrorism using explosives on flights destined to North America.
"We have been in contact with the United States Homeland Security Secretary, Michael Chertoff, and United Kingdom Home Office Secretary, John Reid, to discuss the heightened security measures that are being put in place," said Minister Day. "Our officials are working closely with officials in the United Kingdom, the United States, and other allies to protect the safety and security of Canadians. We commend the United Kingdom on disrupting this significant terrorist threat."
"In light of these events in the United Kingdom, the Government of Canada has implemented aviation security measures to help ensure the ongoing security of the travelling public," said Minister Cannon.
The following security measures are in place until further notice:
- Effective immediately and for all flights to and from the United Kingdom and the United States, liquids or gels in containers of any size are not permitted to be brought onboard by passengers; this includes liquids or gels in carry-on baggage; and
- Effective 12 p.m. E.S.T. and for all other flights, including Canadian domestic flights, liquids or gels in containers of any size are not permitted to be brought onboard by passengers; this includes liquids or gels in carry-on baggage.
Liquids or gels in containers of any size include: all beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, toothpaste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
Aerosol products in containers of any size will no longer be allowed in carry-on baggage. Passengers should pack aerosol products in checked baggage.
Passengers may bring aboard baby formula or breast milk if a baby or small child is travelling. Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket, insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines are allowed.
Passengers should pack liquids or gels in checked baggage.
The Government of Canada advises all air travellers to keep these measures in mind when preparing for a flight, and to contact their carrier regarding any possible delays.
The Government Operations Centre is coordinating the response of federal departments and agencies, and will be communicating with provinces and territories throughout the day as needed.
Canadians travelling in the United Kingdom, North America and Europe can expect some delay related to increased security measures in all airports
.The Government of Canada remains committed to taking all measures necessary to protect the safety and security of Canadians.
Guidance for airline passengers travelling through U.S. airports
The United States has also set out new guidelines for persons travelling through U.S. airports.
http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?content=5795
Please note that some airlines are implementing their own restrictions in addition to the above Transport Canada restrictions - we recommend that you contact your airline for additional instructions.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
