B.C. implements new COVID-19 border checkpoints

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New, secondary checkpoints have been established on the Canadian side of the northern border in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The provincial checkpoints, which are mandatory for all motorists entering B.C., are located just after the standard Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) border control facilities. Provincial checkpoints were set up in Surrey for those entering B.C. from Blaine, and in Tsawwassen for those entering B.C. from Point Roberts.

After entering Surrey from Blaine, motorists will see a sign that states: “COVID-19 Provincial Checkpoint Ahead: Prepare to Stop.” An additional sign states: “COVID-19: All motorists must stop. Welcome to B.C. Working together to keep our communities safe. All people entering Canada must self-isolate for 14 days – it’s the law. Complete your self-isolation plan at www.gov.bc.ca/returningtravellers. Please follow the instructions of the Checkpoint Agent. Thank you for your patience while we gather information to ensure your safety and that of all British Columbians.”

Individuals who staff the new checkpoints have identified themselves as “conservation officers,” ask motorists about COVID-19 symptoms and distribute informational flyers. The individuals staffing the checkpoints are not affiliated with CBSA, said a CBSA spokesperson on April 13.

A spokesperson for B.C.’s Joint Information Centre (JIC) said that unless you are exempt, everyone now entering Canada is legally obligated to self-isolate under Canada’s federal Quarantine Act. Exempt individuals include air and transportation crews; armed forces personnel; asymptomatic people who provide essential services such as trucking and health care; and others.

“All international travelers returning to B.C. are also required by law to complete a self-isolation plan, regardless of where and when they cross the border,” said the spokesperson. “The self-isolation plan must outline where and how an incoming traveler will safely and effectively self-isolate for 14 days in B.C.”

The JIC spokesperson said that as of April 10, “provincial government officials are on hand 24 hours a day/seven days a week to check these plans and support travelers at the Vancouver International Airport and four major land border crossings – Douglas (Peace Arch), Pacific, Osoyoos and Boundary Bay.”

According to the spokesperson, Service BC staff will be conducting follow-up phone calls “to make sure people are following their self-isolation plan and have the support they need to continue isolating safely and effectively.” In addition, RCMP officers will play a role in conducting “physical verification” of B.C. residents’ compliance with the Quarantine Act.

On April 14, Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada-U.S. border restrictions won’t be relaxed in the near term. He said Canada was still in the “control-and-contain” phase of the pandemic and would not consider “even a partial return to normality for several more weeks,” including re-opening the northern border to non-essential travel.

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