Mohawks' border motion rejected

The Federal Court yesterday rejected a motion from Akwesasne Mohawks in Quebec that Canadian Border Services exempt them from reporting to a new border crossing. The crossing was moved to Cornwall, Ont., from Kawehnoke, or Cornwall Island, in July in the aftermath of Mohawk protests over thearmingof border guards. Members of the Akwesasne community -- which has also asked for a judicial review of the decision to move the border -- cannot travel to Cornwall Island without passing through the United States. Since September, if Akwesasne members failed to report at the new border crossing, they could have their vehicles seized and fined $1,000 or more, said Brendan White, a communications officer for the Mohawk council.