SURREY — A local New Democrat MP is asking the federal government to explain why shipping containers are no longer being routinely inspected when they arrive at Port Metro Vancouver.
“Even random inspections have ceased,†said Jinny Sims, MP for Newton-North Delta and NDP critic for employment and social development.
“As I understand it, inspections are only conducted now when there are suspicious containers arriving, or when authorities receive a tip.â€
Sims has written Steven Blaney, Canada’s minister of public safety, seeking answers. She has yet to receive a response.
“At the same time that airport inspections have increased — every individual is scanned and has his/her luggage scanned — I am deeply troubled to learn there have been inspection cuts at Port Metro Vancouver,†Sims wrote the minister.
“With such a lack of oversight, and considering the surge of recent gang-related shootings in my riding, I am concerned about the potential for illegal firearms and drugs to be brought into the area via this channel.â€
More to come…