Our government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Albertans.
I am proud to share an exciting development that emphasizes this commitment with the creation of a new specialized unit under the Alberta Sheriffs dedicated to patrolling the Alberta-U.S. border announced by Premier Danielle Smith and Minister of Public safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis this week.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to protect our communities from the threats posed by illegal cross-border activity.
The Alberta Sheriffs Interdiction Patrol Team (IPT) will strengthen security along Alberta’s 298-kilometre international boundary with the United States and beyond. This $29 million investment demonstrates our government’s resolve to crack down on illegal drugs, firearms, and human trafficking while safeguarding Albertans’ livelihoods and the economy.
This specialized team will consist of 51 uniformed officers equipped with carbine rifles for tactical operations, supported by 10 dispatchers and analysts. The unit will also deploy four highly trained drug patrol dogs, 10 advanced cold-weather surveillance drones capable of operating in extreme conditions, and four narcotics analyzers to detect and analyze illicit substances swiftly. These resources will empower the IPT to address border security challenges effectively, covering not only the international boundary but also major highways and known inter-provincial routes.
Illegal cross-border activities pose a serious threat to public safety.
The trafficking of drugs, firearms, and people damages the fabric of our communities, and the continuing cycles of violence and exploitation. Our government will not stand idly by while criminals attempt to exploit our borders.
With the IPT’s targeted enforcement, we are taking decisive action to put an end to these activities and send a clear message: Alberta’s borders are not open to criminal enterprises.
Collaboration is key to the success of this initiative. The IPT will work closely with local, provincial, and federal law enforcement agencies to share intelligence and coordinate efforts.
This united front will strengthen our ability to detect and prevent illegal activities, ensuring that Alberta remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.
Our commitment to combating human trafficking is equally as important.
Alberta’s government has introduced the Combating Trafficking in Persons (CTIP) Grant program, allocating $5.5 million to community-based organizations across the province.
These grants will fund prevention, protection, and empowerment initiatives, with priority given to projects led by survivors and Indigenous communities.
By supporting these critical programs, we are helping to break the cycle of exploitation and provide victims with the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Together, these measures highlight our government’s dedication to public safety.
By tackling illegal cross-border activity and human trafficking, we are protecting Alberta and its people.
We encourage community organizations to apply for the CTIP grant and join us in building a stronger, safer Alberta for everyone.
- MLA Jackie Lovely can be contacted at her constituency office located at #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose AB, T4V 1S1, or by telephone at 780-672-0000.
