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Port Security and Marine Operations

Part of the North American Security Perimeter

Security Perimeter
  • Maintaining our reputation as a safe port-of-call
  • Security is a critical factor in the continued commercial viability of the Port of Halifax Port Authority (HPA)
  • 30% of container business into United States
  • 93% of cruise passengers visiting Halifax are American

HPA'S Coordination Role

Security Perimeter
  • Working closely with the federal government to ensure coordination with marine security initiatives
  • 2001 establishment of Port Security Committee
  • The HPA has taken a leadership position within the Halifax marine community to ensure awareness of, and action on, port security
  • Only major seaport in Canada with 24-hour policing service
  • Halifax Regional Police Service - dedicated Ports officers
  • Access to intelligence and specialized policing services, ie. canine units
  • In a major event, ability to adapt through Halifax Regional Police Service
  • HPA was chosen by CCRA as their port partner in the Radiation Detection Pilot Project
  • Relationships with colleagues in the northeastern United States
    • Operation Safe Commerce Program
    • Regulators and other ports

2005 Action on Security

Police Patrol Boat
  • The Port of Halifax is compliant with the IMO's International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS). Canada enacted the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) and its accompanying regulations (MTSR) which came into effect in November 2004 in conjunction with of this international initiative.
  • Canada's MTSA and MTSR augment and revise the ISPS Code in order to ensure consistent and supportive actions with the U.S. MTSA and MTSR. These mandatory security regulations were adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in December 2002, and took effect July 1, 2004. The primary purpose of these regulations is to provide consistent guidelines to protect shipping and port facilities against security threats and provide measures to recognize vulnerabilities and prevent them from becoming major risks.
  • HPA budget for security in 2005 is in excess of $1.5 million. In addition, HPA has applied for a further 3 million in Maritime Security Contribution Program (MSCP) funding to advance security projects and infrastructure in our facilities. HPA is also in the process of drafting an overall Port Security Plan in conjunction with federal agencies and port stakeholders which will provide an over-arching framework that addresses security from a port wide perspective and incorporates many initiatives that will enhance the security posture of the port and its varied facilities and critical infrastructure.
  • Investments in:
    • Waterborne patrols through an enhanced policing contract with HRM and the use of the newly acquired harbour patrol boat
    • Security Audits, Exercises and Drills designed to validate and improve on existing security plans
    • Installation of enhanced security lighting around port properties and terminals
    • Significant upgrades and enhancements to a port-wide video surveillance system supported by both fibre optic lines and wireless technology which will include a waterside surveillance capability.
    • Planned new Port Community Identification badges which expands on the current program to include truckers and other stakeholders to improve efficiency for terminal access in conjunction with the MTSR
    • Further installations of security fences, automated gates and pedestrian turnstiles leading onto port property and terminals
Police Patrol Boat
  • Today, Canadian Port Authorities operate like a business, generating revenues and investing back into operations and infrastructure
  • Canada Marine Act does not currently permit federal funding of Canadian Port Authorities. However, HPA is actively developing projects for infrastructure and supporting information technologies that will significantly enhance the port's security with applications for funding support through the MSCP sponsored by Transport Canada.
  • Annually, the HPA conducts major port security exercises to test contingency plans. This year the port is actively involved in the development and planning for Atlantic Guard III. This exercise will take place in the fall of this year and involve all three levels of government, multiple governmental agencies and industry stakeholders. This is a major exercise that will include all three Maritime Provinces in emergency response and contingency operations.