VANCOUVER – The shooting in Ottawa means heightened security in B.C., from transit to the legislature, but officials at the legislature say they were aware of a ‘heightened concern’ from Ottawa before the shooting on Wednesday.
“We are aware, and have been aware, of a heightened concern from entities in Ottawa,” said Craig James, B.C. Legislature chief clerk. “For at least a few days.”
He did not elaborate on what that heightened concern was, but said they “received information there may be a problem.”
There was no specific threat aimed at the legislature however.
Premier Christy Clark said she does not want security measures to go too far. “We do need to find a balance, we don’t want the legislature fenced in and shut off,” she said.
“We want to ensure that the public continues to have access to these institutions. If we cut off our democratic institutions from the public it means the people who practice terror have won a victory and we can’t allow that to happen.”
A metal detector will now be installed in the downstairs entrance to the legislature.
More RCMP officers were quickly visible at YVR as reports started to pour in from Ottawa. The response is something police train for.
Airport officials say the extra officers will help keep passengers safe and secure.
People riding public transit this morning will also notice additional patrols. Bomb sniffing dogs are among the resources being deployed by Transit Police.
Officers say there are no imminent threats, but they want to be cautious.
Passengers are being asked to stay patient as they deal with the extra measures.
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