New enforcement team replaces police officers at Province House
The Nova Scotia Legislature has recently made the decision to establish its own dedicated security team, ending the previous practice of having officers from Halifax Regional Police work overtime shifts to fulfill security duties. This new security team, comprised of four government enforcement agents, will now be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of Province House during sittings and legislative committee meetings.
In a recent interview, Charcy Marchand, director of public safety and policing for the province’s Justice Department, explained that the creation of this specialized security team is a proactive measure in response to the increasing number of threats directed towards elected and senior government officials in recent years. The team will not only provide security at Province House but will also conduct security monitoring, risk assessments, and offer security advice at MLA constituency offices and government buildings.
The decision to establish this new enforcement team comes after a violent assault occurred at the constituency office of Halifax Atlantic MLA Brendan Maguire two years ago, prompting discussions among elected officials about the need for additional security measures. Ultimately, the budget for the enforcement team, totaling $907,000, was approved as part of the 2025-26 provincial budget. The team members, all retired members of the RCMP or municipal police forces, have been appointed as special constables under the Police Act, granting them the authority to carry firearms and other intermediate weapons.
While the enforcement team’s primary jurisdiction is limited to the downtown Halifax property of the legislature, their responsibilities will also extend to enforcing the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act, a program aimed at addressing illegal activities in residential and commercial buildings. This new security initiative underscores the province’s commitment to ensuring the safety of government officials and the public within legislative spaces.
