The legislatures in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick are taking precautions after two shootings in Ottawa left a soldier and a gunman dead on Wednesday.
In Halifax, security was increased at the Nova Scotia legislature and the building was locked down, but daily proceedings continued.
“As soon as I got in this morning and heard the news we immediately put the building on lockdown,” said Speaker Kevin Murphy. “All members will be asked to wear their photo IDs, leave their bags at the door.”
The gallery was closed to the public and only people with official passes, such as staff and media, were let into the building during Wednesday’s sitting.
A police officer was stationed at each entrance as members arrived for the afternoon sitting.
Premier Stephen McNeil indicated he has reached out to Prime Minister Stephen Harper and to the commander of Marine Forces Atlantic to offer his support.
“I’ve been asked by the RCMP to pass on this request to all Nova Scotians, if you see something suspicious report it to the appropriate authorities," said McNeil.
“I do want to reach out specifically to the member for Bedford and the member for Victoria Lakes and let them know we’re here for them,” said Progressive Conservative Leader Jamie Baillie.
MLA Pam Eyking didn’t know what was happening on Parliament Hill until she received a message from her husband, Nova Scotia MP Mark Eyking.
“I received a text from my husband and I immediately texted him back to see what was going on,” said Eyking. “He assured me that they were safe and in an undisclosed location and we’ve continued to text back and forth throughout the day.”
Labour Minister Kelly Regan was informed when she arrived at an event Wednesday morning. Her husband, MP Geoff Regan, was on a plane at the time.
“He left Ottawa early this morning so I have spoken to his staff, they’re OK,” said Regan. “They’re on lockdown right now. I’ve sent him a text and I hope to hear from him when he lands.”
Bill briefings and other government business went on as usual, but the MLAs were clearly focused on the shootings in Ottawa.
“This gives us great pause to think about how we’re going to go forward and ensure that people are secure and safe as they provide the service they provide,” said interim NDP Leader Maureen MacDonald.
McNeil said the Justice Department remains in close contact with the RCMP and Armed Forces.
In New Brunswick, the sergeant-at-arms ordered that legislative assembly buildings be closed to the public.
Dan Bussieres said the decision was made to ensure people feel safe and the buildings will remain closed to the public until he completes a risk assessment and reports to the Speaker on Friday.
There are significant security measures in place at the New Brunswick legislature already. All visitors must pass through metal detectors and scans before being admitted.
The swearing-in of a new lieutenant-governor will proceed as planned Thursday as will Friday's swearing-in of members who were elected in last month's election.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Jacqueline Foster, Andy Campbell and The Canadian Press
