The RCMP completes its Administrative Review following the December 7 security breach on Parliament Hill

Ottawa - February 25, 2010 - The RCMP has completed its Administrative Review that was initiated following a security breach that occurred on Parliament Hill. On the morning of December 7, 2009 at approximately 7:10 am, the RCMP became aware that a number of Greenpeace activists wearing construction hard hats and coveralls had accessed rooftops on Parliament Hill. Greenpeace protestors were able to reach the roof of West Block via scaffolding at the rear of the building. This area was surrounded by a construction fence, which had been secured with nylon tie-wraps. A number of protesters also made their way onto the roof above the Senate entrance to Centre Block and displayed banners. The protestors appeared to have cut the nylon tie-wraps to gain entry to this restricted construction zone prior to making their way to the roof. It was later determined that the activists had reached the grounds via two open pedestrian access points.

Once detected, the RCMP took immediate action in collaboration with the Senate Protective Services, the House of Commons Security Services, the Ottawa Police Service and the Ottawa Fire Department to safely remove the protesters from the restricted areas. Twenty (20) protestors were arrested and turned over to the Ottawa Police Service, and are facing charges of Mischief contrary to Sec. 430 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

An administrative review was immediately conducted by the RCMP to examine and make recommendations regarding necessary changes with respect to security measures. The recommendations include the examination of both short and longer term security strategies for the Hill and increasing our security presence as well as implementing additional security measures on the construction sites.

"The administrative review has highlighted key findings that have led us to re-examine the delivery of our operations, implement immediate security improvements and validate the need for longer term enhancements while at the same time, balancing public access against security." says Chief Superintendent James Malizia, Officer in charge of the RCMP's Protective Operations in the National Capital Region.

Parliament Hill is a symbolic place for all Canadians and international visitors. The RCMP and its security partners remain committed to providing a seamless and comprehensive security package both on the grounds and within the Parliamentary Precinct.

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