I want to congratulate George Roach for speaking out regarding the FINTRAC requirements now imposed upon real estate agents (REM, August).
 
I usually accept change very well. Especially when it makes sense. This new set rules from FINTRAC, however, is preposterous, onerous and useless. I agree with George that any terrorist or other evil doer will have no problem evading the simplistic presentation of forms. We are not trained or skilled in any way to recognize a terrorist. It’s like annoying a lion with a feather. They just get up and walk away, or if it’s a real nasty lion, they’ll disembowel you for bothering them.
 
Frankly, it makes me nervous. As a female agent, I am regularly advised to be aware of the dangers present when dealing with strangers. Well, gee, I feel so much more comfortable now that I am  required to investigate them. Let’s just all make the bad ones nervous.
 
Can’t we leave this in the hands of those trained to recognize potential threats? Can we not ask our clients as part of our checklist to visit the local RCMP office, where they would place themselves in the presence of an authoritative figure trained to recognize and ask the right questions?
 
I hope others will add their voice to this protest. Imposing even a portion of the job of protecting our country from terrorists on real estate agents is almost comically ineffective.
 
Louise Parker
Real estate sales professional
Exit Realty 1ST Call
Enfield, N.S.