Last week, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) seized 5,600 cartons of contraband cigarettes in Cornwall valued at over $250, 000. I would like to commend the CBSA and Cornwall Regional Task Force for their successful seizure and arrest of the perpetrators. I believe these agencies play an essential role in ensuring the safety and security of our community.
 
It is my opinion that the manufacturing and sale of contraband tobacco doesn’t only have a negative impact on the health of our community, it also has an impact on our communities economy and public safety. The sale of illegal tobacco contributes hundreds of millions of dollars to the underground economy, organized crime and terrorism. That is why in 2008 our Conservative government launched the RCMP Contraband Tobacco Enforcement Strategy. In 2007 the RCMP seized 626, 0000 cartons of contraband cigarettes. During 2008, when the strategy was implemented, the RCMP seized 966, 000 cartons of contraband cigarettes, an increase of 50%. I think this significant increase in seizures is proof that this strategy has been effective in combating the smuggling and selling of contraband tobacco.
 
Further, I believe this strategy has helped reduce the availability of contraband tobacco by  disrupting the distribution supply lines and seizing illicit tobacco and related proceeds generated by organized crime.
 
Contraband tobacco has created a number of significant challenges for our communities. Along with increased health risks for smokers, the proceeds of contraband are used to finance more serious criminal activities. Unsuspecting purchasers of contraband cigarettes do not realize they may be financing organized criminals and or terrorists. And of course, millions of dollars of tax revenues are lost.
 
I want to assure all constituents of SD&SG that preventing the selling of contraband tobacco is a priority for me and my Conservative government.
 
Guy Lauzon MP