Security: Canaveral, Metro Vancouver

Starting Oct. 1, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Department becomes responsible for law enforcement and seaport security services at Port Canaveral as part of a $4.9 million annual contract.

"We are confident that our community and partners will experience a seamless transition and can be assured that public safety remains a top priority as we continue to expand our operations," said Port Canaveral CEO John Walsh.

Port Canaveral Commissioners voted in May to de-activate the Police Department and to enter into partnership with Brevard Sheriff’s Department, expressing concern over anticipated port growth and security operations keeping pace. Contracting out law enforcement and security services is expected to save the port authority about $500,000 annually.

"Our agency is excited to partner with the Canaveral Port Authority to ensure the safety and security of Port Canaveral while protecting its visitors, tenants and citizens with the abilities, resources and professionalism of the Brevard County Sheriff's Office," said Sheriff Wayne Ivey.

From left, Canaveral Port Authority Chairman Tom Weinberg, Brevard Sheriff Wayne Ivey, and Commission Secretary/Treasurer Frank Sullivan sign law enforcement agreement.

Photo/Canaveral Port Authority

Port Metro Vancouver Deploys New Patrol Vessels and Other Security Assets

Port Metro Vancouver on Sept. 9 unveiled new patrol vessels and other operations and security assets that will help maintain the safe, secure, efficient and reliable movement of marine traffic and cargo within its jurisdiction. The port also further strengthened its operations and security presence by updating its Harbour operations manual, known as the Port Information Guide.

The vessels will provide marine surveillance, early incident detection and activity tracking. A new incident response and security vehicle, with related tactical hardware, will be used to do the same on land.

The updated Port Information Guide is a resource for all mariners, including recreational boaters operating within Port Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction, and has been brought in line with globally recognized standards published by the International Harbour Masters Association.

Port Metro Vancouver’s federal mandate requires it to promote and safeguard Canada’s trade competitiveness and objectives, in part by ensuring port operations are secure, reliable and environmentally responsible. These latest additions complement Port Metro Vancouver’s operations center, which uses a variety of security and situational awareness technologies such as live camera feeds, controlled access gates and GPS tracking on all port-authorized container trucks.

"Port Metro Vancouver’s operations center is on task 24 hours a day, 7 days a week," said Peter Xotta, the port authority’s vice president of operations and planning. "Our operations center, Harbour Patrol officers and security staff monitor activities within Port Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction, communicate with other agencies and help coordinate response efforts in emergency situations."

Working with first responders, the community and port stakeholders, Port Metro Vancouver maintains situational awareness and has a coordinating role within its jurisdiction of more than 640 kilometers/247 miles of shoreline. Responsibilities include marine patrols, ship inspections, permitting of operational activities and the development of marine safety rules and procedures. Port Metro Vancouver works in partnership with a broad range of stakeholders including municipalities, regional emergency response organizations, police forces and federal agencies.

"We are bolstering our presence on land and water," added Mr. Xotta. "This helps ensure our operations and security teams are equipped with the most appropriate tools to carry out and enforce our mandate."