Canadian, American mayors unite in protest of passport requirement

[struggle4progress]

Cities fear security measure will hit trade
ANGELA PACIENZA
Canadian Press

WINDSOR, ONT. -- Mayors from Canada and the U.S. united yesterday in their fight to delay the implementation of the controversial Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative until an affordable and convenient alternative to the passport can be found.

"It's important for us to find a real solution . . . something that's affordable, available and accessible and that's going to keep people travelling," said Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis, host of a day-long meeting of about 60 mayors and other government officials.

The coalition of mayors called on the U.S. government to find a better solution to the passport requirement -- one that won't ruin the close ties between the two countries.

There is growing concern the security measure, set to take effect in 2008, will put a serious dent in everyday trade and travel, especially at border communities such as Windsor-Detroit, Niagara-Buffalo and Lower Mainland B.C.-northwest Washington where people are known to make a trip just to check out a new restaurant or club ...

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