Border Water Patrols Enhanced

Canada and the U.S. governments are giving more powers to authorities to police force border waters.

A framework agreement will allow specially designated Canadian and American law enforcement personnel to jointly work on marine law enforcement vessels in boundary waters, such as Rainy Lake and Lake of the Woods.

Justice Minister Rob Nicholson says the officers will have the powers to enforce laws from both sides of the border.

"This will enhance our security on both sides of the border," says Nicholson, "by reducing smuggling and trafficking illegal drugs, guns and people."

Nicholson says its hoped to have the new units in place next summer.