POLL: Canadian Government responsible for resolving border closure

The Government of Canada is responsible for resolving a border closure that has adversely impacted Cornwall and neighboring communities, according to a an online poll that was conducted by Cornwall radio station AM1220. Nearly 80 percent of the 3,000 votes placed in the survey, as of June 17, feel that the decision to reopen the bridge crossing solely rests with the federal government.

In the poll that began soon after CBSA’s closing of the Three Nations Bridge Crossing entered its third week, visitors to the radio station’s website have been sharing their answers and comments to the following question:

“With Cornwall’s border closure in its third week, who do you think is most responsible for resolving the dispute?

• Canada Border Services Agency

• Federal Government

• Mohawk Council of Akwesasne”

At noon on June 17; 79 percent of the 2,820 individuals that participated in the survey indicated that the federal government can end the dispute and reopen the border crossing. The remaining 12 percent

identified the Canada Border Services Agency, while 9 percent noted the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne.

Though the online poll is by no means scientific and only reflects the opinion of those internet users that have chosen to participate, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne said the finding is encouraging for area businesses that are being economically impacted by as much as $10,000 per day, according to a survey completed last week by the Cornwall and Area Chamber of Commerce.

MCA is also conducting a poll of Akwesasne community members on the border issue.