Integrated Police Agencies Report Positively on Presidential Visit

Ottawa, Thursday, February 19, 2009— The integrated police and emergency agencies responsible for the security of the US President report positively on the security measures implemented to ensure public order and security during the US Presidential visit.  The partners include: the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Ottawa Police Service, the Ontario Provincial Police, the Canadian Forces, the North American Aerospace Defense Command, the Ottawa International Airport Authority, House of Commons Security, Senate Security, Ottawa paramedic service, Ottawa Fire Services, Canada Border Service Agency, the City of Ottawa, the City of Gatineau, Gatineau Police, the Province of Ontario, the Province of Québec, Canadian Security Intelligence Service, Public Safety Canada, Privy Council Office, Sûreté du Québec, NCR Military Police, OC Transpo, York Regional Police and London Police. 

A mandate fulfilled

The integrated police services worked closely together to provide the best possible security services during this meeting of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and US President Barack Obama.

These partners fulfilled their mandate which consisted mainly in ensuring the security of Canadian dignitaries as well as President Obama and his National Security Advisor.  In addition, law enforcement personnel ensured the safety and security of citizens who gathered on Parliament Hill to catch a glimpse of the President and be part of this historical moment.

Approximately 2,500 people were on Parliament Hill today.  The police acknowledge the tremendous support from the citizens of Ottawa in keeping this a peaceful and successful event.  We particularly appreciate the patience with traffic disruptions and the local media who played a key role in communicating road closures and detours.

Security Incidents

At the end of the day-long event, the police have arrested one individual for causing a disturbance.  He was subsequently released without charges. 

As part of its security operations, the RCMP established a perimeter to ensure the safety and security of the US President and his staff. Transport Canada issued a Notice to airmen (NOTAM) clearly communicating airspace restrictions.  Our counterparts with the Canadian NORAD Region can confirm that there were two (2) airspace (TFR) violations.  Each of those instances were resolved without incident. 

Now that the US Presidential Visit is closed, law enforcement partners have closed the Integrated Media Line.  Media are encouraged to call the Ottawa Police Service at (613) 236-1222 ext. 5366 or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at (613) 993-2999 for further information tomorrow. 

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