As a result, numerous action items are now being developed and implemented by NHQ and field staff. These include national policies on escort and layover and operating instructions for better managing removal cases where airlines are liable for costs. Work also continued to identify ways to increase mutual cooperation with foreign governments that face similar removals problems. As a result, in August 1997, the new International Civil Aviation Organization standards, sponsored by CIC, were passed and became effective. In Ontario Region, the Confirmation of Departure project is a new initiative that frees Enforcement staff to concentrate on more difficult removals by having staff at Pearson Internaional Airport verify the departure of clients that report voluntarily for removal.
Similar initiatives are also underway in Quebec and British Columbia regions.
Canada currently has six bilateral agreements with the governments of the United States, Vietnam, Jamaica, Hong Kong, the Czech Republic and Slovenia. These bilateral arrangements assist the Department in effecting removals. In April 1997, CIC removed the visitor visa requirement for citizens of Portugal. This decision underscores Canada's desire to improve trade and cultural ties with people of other nations. However, managing access to Canada is about striking a balance between facilitation and control.