Diversion of customs agents slows Global Entry interviews

WASHINGTON – The Trump administration’s decision to shift some Customs and Border Protection agents to the southern border is leading the agency to cancel some interviews for the Global Entry traveller-screening program.

Travel-industry groups have expressed concern that the move will hurt Global Entry, which allows low-risk travellers who undergo an interview and background check to skip through customs more quickly when they arrive in the U.S.

Some Customs and Border Protection agents have been sent to help handle an influx of migrants at the border with Mexico.

The agency said in a statement Friday that as a result, it is temporarily reducing staff at Global Entry enrolmentcentres nationwide.

The agency said some scheduled appointments have been cancelled, and it may be difficult to schedule interviews.