While some here would accept the American ethos of labour relations -- i.e. indentured servatude -- others would like to feel we live in a "kindler, gentler" sort of country. Technically, Customs & Revenue is now an independent corporation, like Canada Post and NAVCAN, no longer a government agency nor Crown Corporation.

As the article notes, part of this dispute is an interpretation of roles and functions. Traditionally Customs officers enforce the regs related to entry of goods into Canada, to ensure any duties or taxes are collected if due. Adding the "security" role may be a stretch, but does suggest the officers might have a case of pay equity. If they choose to work to rule, as frustrating as that might be for those in line, they are just following directions of management.

My last experience entering the US via LAX INS was not a stellar example of efficiency under a Republican regime. There were over 300 of us off a UA 747 from NRT, and just three agents at the dozen gates to process us: 1 for American Citizens and 2 for the rest of us. Once the American Citizens cleared, that agent didn't start taking the rest of us, he went for lunch! So if anyone needs firing, it might be the supervisors of LAX INS.