Remarks from Minister Goodale on a thwarted terrorist threat

Speech

Public Safety Regional Office Regina

August 11, 2016

(check against delivery)

Good afternoon. As you know, yesterday, the RCMP, acting on credible information of an imminent terrorist threat, took swift action to uphold public safety.

I want to commend the RCMP, CSIS, local police and law enforcement for their exceptional work in taking the appropriate measures to keep Canadians safe. I’d especially like to thank the FBI for their assistance.

I have spoken with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as well as my counterparts Loretta Lynch, the Attorney General of the United States, and the United Kingdom’s Home Secretary Amber Rudd. Both extended congratulations to our police and security agencies for a successful operation.

This disturbing event serves to remind us that when it comes to the threat of terrorism, Canada is not immune. Unwavering vigilance is required.

It’s important for Canadians to know that whenever credible information is obtained about a potential terrorist threat, our police and security agencies take the appropriate steps to ensure the safety of our citizens. These agencies conducted themselves effectively in the circumstances that developed yesterday.

There is no greater responsibility of the Government than to ensure public safety. While I cannot comment on operational details, I can assure Canadians that the Government of Canada monitors all potential threats and has robust measures in place to address them.

Canadians should always remain alert to the danger of terrorism and report any suspicious activity to the National Security Tip Line (1-800-420-5805) or by contacting their local police.

Yesterday’s events underscore the need for Canada to become a world leader in counter-radicalization.

That is why the federal government will be opening a new national office and centre of excellence for community outreach and engagement in the near future. Its purpose will be to develop and coordinate expertise in identifying those who could be vulnerable to radicalization, and to connect with them to head-off tragedies before they happen.

I want to take this opportunity to reiterate that taking all relevant information into account—including the events of the past 24 hours—senior security officials have not adjusted the National Terrorism Threat Level for Canada, which remains at "medium," where it has stood since the fall of 2014.

The loss of any life is tragic, but yesterday’s outcome prevented a much more terrible result.

Canada remains a safe and peaceful nation. We will continue to take appropriate steps to keep Canadians safe and safeguard Canadian values.

Thank you. I am pleased to take your questions.

Hon. Ralph Goodale Public Safety Canada Government and Politics