News Release

Busier border crossings with upcoming long weekends and Bicentennial of the War of 1812 Celebrations

Niagara Falls/Windsor, Ontario, June 25, 2011- The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reminds travellers to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel as the summer season means increased cross-border traffic with the vacation season kick-off on the July long weekend. This year, border crossings may also be busier with Government of Canada Bicentennial of the War of 1812 celebrations. Please see the Government of Canada's 1812 Web site for further information.

“We are making every effort to minimize delays at our border crossings during busier long weekends by maximizing our resources with additional staff,” said Rick Comerford, Regional Director General, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Southern Ontario Region. “Travellers are also reminded that the new personal exemptions do not apply for same-day cross-border shoppers.”

For general border questions, contact our Border Information Service at 1-800-461-9999 for calls within Canada, or 204-983-3500 or 506-636-5064 for calls outside of Canada (long distance charges will apply). Officers are available Monday to Friday (08:00 - 16:00 local time / except holidays) should callers require additional information.

Check border wait times at www.cbsa.gc.ca/waittimes, or follow us on Twitter for hourly border wait time updates at Queenston–Lewiston Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, Peace Bridge, Ambassador Bridge, Detroit and Canada Tunnel, and Blue Water Bridge. Avoid crossing during peak travel times and consider crossing at the least busy port of entry in the area whenever possible.

Be patient. The CBSA wishes you happy travels and a safe return to Canada.

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For media information:

Jean D’Amelio Swyer
Communications Manager
Canada Border Services Agency
Tel.: 905-354-2011 or 519-967-4330 / Cell: 905-933-5463

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