Canada begins use of biometric IDs, shifts immigration functions

Canada begins use of biometric IDs, shifts immigration functions    Transport Canada and the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) said they've implemented a restricted-area identification card for use by airport workers.
   The new card will use biometrics to support the issuing, verification, tracking and cancellation of identification for employees working in restricted areas at Canada's 29 major airports.
   In addition, selected airports in Canada will begin to use new document screening equipment to test for traces of explosives on boarding passes. The explosives detection pilot project will augment continuing screening requirements for passengers, CATSA explained.
   The Canadian government has also transferred certain functions between Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), effective Oct. 8.
   'The CBSA will now assume responsibility for the ongoing delivery of immigration operations at ports of entry, with CIC maintaining responsibility for functional guidance and policy development,' CBSA said in a statement.