JULY 22, 2009

       Instead of our country becoming closer bosom buddies with our neighbours to the south, it seems to be increasingly difficult to get from one place to another.

       A story about a couple in its 50s made national headlines when they had guns pulled on them by border security when trying to go to the United States. Turns out it was a case of mistaken identity but also one of fear, and in some people’s opinion, excess aggressiveness on behalf of the officials.

       The same day that story surfaced, I did an interview (on a totally unrelated subject) with an American rock star coming to Canada. When we wrapped the official business we had to do, we continued chatting about how much she loves Canada. But there is one problem: she has trouble getting across the border. With the tape still rolling, I caught her candid comments.

       “They’re pretty strict about who gets into your country,” she said. “I always have trouble and I just had a couple unpaid parking tickets (in the United States).”

       Whatever the case, she’s flagged on computers and says she gets hassled every time. In fact, so much so that she has to depart for Canada a day or two before the rest of her band in case she gets tied up at the border. (And hopefully not physically, but you never know with the gun-drawing people they have patrolling.)

       Now, Manitobans need to have special ID just to drive across the border. And according to Manitoba Public Insurance, not many people have responded to the campaign to have “enhanced” identification.

       So, what does that tell us? I think it tells us we’re distancing ourselves from our neighbours so much to the point we might not be “Friendly Manitoba” anymore. Is it becoming so difficult and such a hassle that we’ll just stay home now?

       I have a passport, but many of my family members and friends don’t. I know a lot of people that go to the U.S. for a daytrip to gamble. Excuse me, that used to go gamble. With the increased obstacles, most – if not all – have decided it’s not worth it.

       This is all very strange considering a new president and agreements between countries have helped big business but hurt citizen relations.