Modern Policing

CLIVE ADDY

Dec 15, 2013

As we head into 2014, FrontLine Security offers some very pertinent reflections on the complex challenges of policing and disaster management. I trust that our articles will stimulate the additional discussion and debate.

First, Dr. Michael Kempa, a most respected researcher in his field, gives us a broad but comprehensive perspective on challenges in modern Canadian Policing in this more complex, and interconnected global environment, and the correspondingly changing face of Canadian community policing.

Jacqueline Chartier, our intrepid Calgary-based writer, spends a day with Peace Officers in the Public Safety and Enforcement Section of Calgary Transit, and shares some of the background of its cultural transformation.

Cyber expert Dave McMahon advises us on the many ways privacy may unknowingly be jeopardized during the Winter Games.

Dr. Jim Cox reports upon the recent conference of the Canadian Military Intelligence Association and its view of the move towards greater coordination in its “Future Enterprise”. Again here, the integration of resources for the greater security of all Canadians bears noting. Similarly, FrontLine’s maritime correspondent Tim Dunne travelled to Ottawa this fall to attend the SecureTech 2013 conference, which also highlighted the fact that more federal emphasis must be placed on the need for sustained efforts in terms national security – yes, even in Canada.

As well, FrontLine writer Tim Lynch explains how the RCMP and Coast Guard work together in the Maritime Security Operations Centre for the Great Lakes. Our own Richard Bray continues our series on the challenges and apathy encountered when trying to enforce laws against illicit contraband trade (and tobacco in particular), as he interviews Gary Grant, spokesperson for the National Coalition Against Contraband Tobacco.

Following up on major Canadian natural disasters in Lac Mégantic and Calgary, we are fortunate to have reports on the actions of local responders and authorities. In the face of these disasters, these two cities can claim the title of most resilient communities of 2013! We also thank André Corbould, Chief Assistant Deputy Minister for Emergency Measures in Alberta, who talks about the Flood Recovery Task Force in his province. Following up on government progress on the issue of rail safety, our own Ken Pole updates us on Transport Minister Lisa Rait’s response.

Pierre Poirier, the Chief of Security and Emergency Management at the City of Ottawa, details progress in CBRNE response issues.

And wrapping up this edition, Scott Newark explains that asking the right questions is the only way to uncover truly effective solutions when examining the economics of myriad policing requirements.

We are lucky indeed to live in North America, what will 2014 bring?