Thanks for the ping. I can see that it might be reasonable to have special search procedures at the border as a condition for entry. That said, if the charter guarantees freedom of movement (which it does, as does the Constitution), then I can also see why it would be shaky legal ground to require citizens to allow infringement of some of their rights as a prerequisite for exercising their right of travel. I didn’t notice whether this guy was a Canadian citizen, though — if not, he shouldn’t automatically be accorded the guarantees that come with citizenship. However, if you’re going to actually damage someone’s property during the search, it might be reasonable to have an extra level of scrutiny.
Oh, and as for me, I love Canada. It’s indescribably beautiful; even better, everytime my hubby and I have visited people have been friendly, funny and so very welcoming (even in Quebec, where I was concerned about French snobbishness). True patriot love, indeed.
Hi Ellery,
This was a BC man.
Screw the charter....when I fly back into Canada they check my luggage, and they better be checking everyone who crosses our border, Canadian citizen or not.