The U.S. border with Canada will remain closed to non-essential travel for another month, the Canadian Minister of Public Safety Bill Blair has announced.
Blair made the announcement on Twitter Friday morning, saying the decision was made to keep Canadians safe. He added that the government is has a plan in place to allow fully vaccinated Canadians, permanent residents, and others who are currently permitted to enter Canada, and will provide further details on Monday, June 21.
Congressmembers Brian Higgins and Bill Huizenga, who serve as co-chairs of the Canada-U.S. Interparliamentary Group, released the following joint statement in response to extension of U.S. – Canada border restrictions:
"Millions of Americans and Canadians are counting on our governments to work together to reach an agreement that provides a clear roadmap for reopening the border between our two nations. The lack of transparency surrounding these negotiations is a disservice to our constituents and the millions of residents on both sides of the border waiting to see their loved ones, visit their property, and renew business ties. While the arrival of vaccines in record time has been a modern marvel, the inability of the U.S. and Canadian governments to reach an agreement on alleviating border restrictions or aligning additional essential traveler classes is simply unacceptable
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer released the following statement regarding the closure: “Instead of endless delays and confusion, we need a concrete plan, based on science and facts, to reopen the northern border for vaccinated individuals. I’ll continue to work with stakeholders on both sides of the border and won’t rest until the norther border is safely and effectively opened for vaccinated New Yorkers.”