Minister Steven Blaney highlights launch of Parliamentary Protective Service

OTTAWA, June 23, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, today issued the following statement highlighting the official launch of the Parliamentary Protective Service.

"I am pleased that, with the Royal Assent of the Budget Implementation Act today, the Parliamentary Protective Service is now officially in effect. Our Government welcomes the enhanced level of protection and integration that the newly formed Service will enable.

The Parliamentary Protective Service will provide physical security in the Parliamentary Precinct and on the grounds of Parliament Hill including the physical security of Parliament, its premises, Parliamentarians, Parliamentary staff and guests of Parliament.

The RCMP will lead operational security, while ensuring that the privileges, immunities and powers of the respective Houses are respected.

I would like to congratulate RCMP Superintendent Michael Duheme on his new role as Director of the Parliamentary Protective Service. In his role as Director, Superintendent Michael Duheme will be responsible for planning, directing, managing and controlling operational security, including members of the RCMP, House of Commons and Senate Protective Services, taking into account the objectives, priorities and goals as set by the Speaker of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Commons.

Parliament Hill belongs to all Canadians and is a symbol of Canadian democracy. Integrating the security forces for Parliament Hill and the Parliamentary Precinct will make it possible to respond to security situations more efficiently and effectively. Establishment of the Parliamentary Protective Service is in keeping with recommendations made by the Auditor General in June 2012."

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SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada

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