Ottawa announces plan to hire 1,000 new border officers, expand benefits for frontline responders

Prime Minister Mark Carney says the federal government will move ahead with new border security and public safety investments as part of the upcoming federal budget, including hiring 1,000 additional Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers.

According to the announcement, the new officers will focus on curbing the movement of stolen goods, illegal firearms, and drugs, while enforcing import measures and investigating unfair trade practices.

The government also plans to increase the CBSA recruit stipend from $125 to $525 per week the first raise since 2005 to attract and retain new recruits.

In addition, the Public Service Superannuation Act will be amended to expand retirement and benefit options for CBSA officers and other frontline responders, recognizing the high-stress and high-risk nature of their work. Under the proposal, eligible workers could retire after 25 years of service without pension penalties.

The policy would apply to border officers, parliamentary protection officers, search and rescue personnel, firefighters, paramedics, and correctional officers working in both federal and territorial roles. Officials say the changes are intended to strengthen recruitment and ensure effective border enforcement at key air, land, rail, and marine entry points.