The following statement was issued today by Premier Roger Grimes. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Security Issues

I wish to provide the House with an update on measures government is taking with regard to security.

It has been said that since September 11th 2001, we live in a changed world, and indeed we do. It is important, however, that we in this country and in this province feel confident to carry on our daily lives as normal. Therefore, government must take steps to ensure the safety and security of our province and its people.

Based on the advice of the RNC and RCMP, we believe that the threat of terrorism - mechanical or biological - is low for Newfoundland and Labrador. However, we will continue to review our civil security measures diligently, and proceed with caution in enhancing them.

Government has established a Ministers Committee on Security Matters, chaired by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, the Honourable Kelvin Parsons, addressing government-wide security and coordinating other agencies which deal with civil security matters. 

Key focus areas for civil security include bio-hazard response protocols, the security of vital statistics and infrastructure protection. 

The RNC and RCMP have developed a bio-hazard response protocol in line with national practice, which will ensure early engagement of appropriate departments and agencies for situation control. 

The Department of Government Services and Lands is reviewing management of vital statistics data and identification documents. The department is also participating in national discussions on document security issues. 

The Emergency Measures Office has structured a Committee of Provincial Emergency Planners to undertake a critical infrastructure assessment that will feed into a National Critical Infrastructure Group. This process will, over the coming weeks and months, identify key assets and strategic sites, and develop appropriate security around them.

Government's top priority is the safety of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and the full protection of key assets and sites. While the tragedy of September 11th has focused public attention more sharply on security issues, many of the enhancements we will see implemented over the coming months are the result of an ongoing, long-term approach to civil and government security in this province. 

Government is taking immediate action to improve security in government buildings. New procedures similar to those implemented by Canada Post have been put in place to protect the health and safety of public officials handling mail. The use of photo ID cards for staff will be an important component of a more secure environment. Other important security measures are currently under review, including the use of passes and accreditations for visitors. These new protocols will assist with visitor identification and management of any emergency situation that may arise. 

One major consideration is the security of the House of Assembly and Confederation Complex. This site is unique in Canada: it is the only location in the country housing both the legislature and extensive government offices in the same building. 

I emphasize, however, that this House and the Confederation Complex surrounding it will continue to welcome visitors. But it will welcome them into a safer and more secure environment.

To address the unique security challenges of this site, last year the House of Assembly commissioned an independent study of safety and security practices for the House and Confederation Complex. 

This report, developed by Mr. Dennis Clark, Sergeant-at-Arms and Executive Director of Building Management and Conservation for the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, is now being considered by the Commission of Internal Economy of the House of Assembly.

On completion of that review, government is prepared to act on the report recommendations, and to act quickly. We will provide appropriate information on any new practices, without compromising security.

Thank you.

2001 11 19                        2:45 p.m.