Équité Association has expressed support for Public Safety Canada’s introduction of Bill C-2, the Strong Borders Act, highlighting its potential to address insurance-related crime, particularly auto theft.
The legislation, announced by Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree, is part of the federal government’s broader $1.3-billion border plan.
Équité lauded several provisions in the proposed legislation that are expected to help reduce insurance crime. These include enhanced border enforcement through amendments to the Customs Act and Oceans Act, expanded investigative powers to address transnational crime and trafficking through changes to laws such as the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Canada Post Corporation Act, and stronger measures against illicit financing through updates to the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act and related statutes.
“Équité applauds the federal government’s decisive action in introducing the Strong Borders Act,” said Terri O’Brien, president and CEO of Équité Association.
“This legislation directly supports law enforcement and the CBSA in strengthening their ability to combat sophisticated criminal networks threatening the safety and security of communities across Canada.
“We are particularly encouraged by the enhanced authorities granted to CBSA and law enforcement agencies, which will strengthen our collective ability to disrupt illegal operations, including the trafficking and distribution of drugs and firearms funded by the proceeds of auto theft,” O’Brien said.
Auto theft in Canada has risen to criss levels in recent years. According to Équité, organized crime groups are behind a significant portion of thefts, with stolen vehicles often shipped overseas or used to fund other criminal activities. Insurers have reported rising claims linked to vehicle theft, leading to higher costs across the system.
Équité has identified Canada’s ports and borders as key points of vulnerability in the illegal export of stolen vehicles. The association said the government’s proposed legislation could support industry efforts to curb organized auto theft networks that operate across borders.
Équité has promised to continue to promote a coordinated approach to insurance crime prevention, including improved border controls, stronger enforcement tools, and collaboration among public and private stakeholders.
