US-Canada Border Data: Keeping Track of Keeping Track
As demonstrated by two recent developments, it is becoming harder to keep track of how much data is being generated and kept by whom when it comes to border crossings.
Although intergovernmental talks continue, it appears that in 2009 the US Transportation Security Administration will institute the collection of personal information on airline passengers on flights passing through US airspace, even if the flights never touch US soil. Many flights originating in Canada pass over US airspace on the way to South America, the Caribbean and Europe. Apart from privacy concerns, the rules will mean many charter and smaller airlines will have to invest in new technology, says the CEO of the Air Transport Association of Canada.
Ontario has passed legislation, Bill 85, the Photo Card Act, to authorize the use of enhanced driver’s licences to be fitted with a radio frequency identification device (RFID). Available optionally, they are intended to facilitate cross-border travel as an “acceptable alternative” to passports. However, several Privacy Commissioners have voiced concern about the proliferation of databases regarding citizenship and the increased risk of loss of privacy.
For the Canadian Press story regarding the US airline watch list, see:
http://tinyurl.com/638hdo
For the Canwest News Service story on Ontario Bill 85, visit:
http://tinyurl.com/68thpz; and
For the Ontario announcement, see:
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/enhancedcards.htm
For a news story regarding the concerns of Privacy Commissioners, visit:
http://tinyurl.com/5lkkx5
Summary by: The Editor
