Mohawks lose bid for interim relief over border closure

OTTAWA - The Federal Court of Canada has rejected an application for interim relief from the Mohawks of Akwesasne while they wait for their legal action over the closing of a customs office in eastern Ontario to be heard.

The Canada Border Services Agency closed the customs office on Cornwall Island on May 31. There had been a dispute over the arming of border guards at the office on Mohawk territory.

An application by the Mohawks for a judicial review of the decision is pending before the Federal Court.

In the meantime, they sought interim measures that included orders to stop action being taken against members of the community -- such as fines and seizing vehicles -- for not reporting to the customs office in Cornwall, Ont.

The Federal Court rejected the application on Monday, saying the Mohawks will not face irreparable harm between now and the time their application for judicial review is finally determined.

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  A Mohawk Warrior flag flies in front of the Canadian border crossing station as they block the Seaway Bridge in the Mohawk community of Akwesasne on Cornwall Island, Ont., Monday, June 1, 2009. The Mohawks are protesting the arming of Canada Customs guards with guns. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz)