Statement

Iqaluit Courthouse Security

Wednesday, March 28, 2012 Iqaluit, NU

Statement of Acting Deputy Minister of Justice, Norman Tarnow: The Department of Justice always takes the security of our courtrooms into consideration when any trial is occurring and works to provide a balance between access and security. In most trials involving serious crimes the defendant is in police custody and is escorted and guarded by at least one police officer. However, in the current criminal proceeding taking place at the Iqaluit courthouse this week, the defendant is free on bail and therefore does not have a police escort. The Department increased its security with additional sheriffs in and outside the courtroom for todays hearing, however this was not deemed to be adequate. Once the date for these proceedings is reset on April 2, 2012, we anticipate that we will have an adequate opportunity to arrange for the requested security. The Department recently began the process of amending legislation that will give authority to search individuals entering the courthouse. Completion of this is expected within the coming months. Sheriffs currently have the role of providing courthouse security not the RCMP. The Department of Justice is responsible for providing administrative support to the Court and is taking steps to assist the sheriffs in receiving the up-to-date training and recertification required to provide them with the necessary security equipment. We expect that this training, along with the amended legislation giving authority to conduct searches of those entering the courthouse, will address some of the concerns that have been raised. The Department of Justice wishes to have all sensitive criminal matters dealt with in a prompt and safe manner which respects the privacy and dignity of all concerned.
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Media contact: Pam Coulter Director of Communications Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs (867) 975-6049 pcoulter2@gov.nu.ca