Windsor NDP MP criticizes Liberal plan [Video]

Two area MPs are weighing in on the federal government’s $1.3-billion border security plan, offering contrasting views on its priorities and effectiveness.

The five-pillar plan, outlined in the fall economic statement earlier this week, includes AI detection tools, drones, helicopters, and enhanced intelligence-sharing capabilities.

It also calls for hiring 100 to 150 additional personnel for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the RCMP.

For Windsor West NDP MP Brian Masse, the Liberal government’s approach falls short.

“I’m concerned about it because we’re focusing on gadgets and gimmicks, as opposed to boots on the ground,” Masse said, highlighting numbers provided by the union representing CBSA workers. “We’re short 2,000 to 3,000 CBSA officers. These are the men and women that do the real work at the border.”

Masse also questioned the use of drones and helicopters in the plan, “What we do know is that the illegal activity is taking …