Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, I am pleased to come before Committee of the Whole to review Bill 15, Court Security Act. The purpose of the bill is to implement security measures for the protection of people who attend or participate in court proceedings. The new act would do this in four ways.
First, no weapons would be allowed in court areas unless specifically authorized. Second, the areas where judges and court clerks work could be established as restricted personnel zones by regulation. Third, certain areas in courthouses could be established by regulation as restricted equipment zones. Use of cell phones, cameras and recording equipment would be limited or prohibited in these zones. Finally, Mr. Chair, security officers would have the legal authority to enforce these security measures and it provides clear penalties for non-compliance.
Legislation restricting what people can do on court premises is in effect in eight provinces across the country. This bill will not change the way courts operate. Court circuits will continue and trials will still be held in communities. This bill sets out in legislation specific security measures that can be put in place in any court facility.
Security measures provided in this bill would apply to Supreme and Territorial Court sittings in all NWT communities. It would authorize security officers to screen people in court areas for weapons. It does not mean that everyone going to court will be searched. It gives security officers the authority to evict anyone who possesses a weapon or who refuses to be screened for weapons.
As I said earlier, Mr. Chair, the purpose of the bill is to keep people safe when they attend court while permitting the court to function effectively. For example, RCMP officers will be able to carry their side arms. Weapons that form part of an exhibit for trial will be permitted to enter the court premises. I would be pleased to answer any questions the committee may have about this bill. Thank you, Mr. Chair.