How RCMP is responding to ‘unprecedented’ threats against MPs, officials

The head of the RCMP unit in charge of protecting politicians says the force is ready for a looming federal election but that threats and requests for protection are increasing.

The head of the RCMP unit in charge of protecting politicians says the force is ready for a looming federal election, even as it deals with an “unprecedented” level of threats against MPs and candidates.

Michelle Paradis, the RCMP assistant commissioner in charge of protective policing, says requests for protection are continuing to increase, and more members are being recruited to meet the demand. Those members are consistently being trained up on new and emerging threats at home and from abroad, with the goal of ensuring they are “constantly vigilant,” she said.

“What I want is for our officers to be trained in a way that… their head is basically on a swivel,” Paradis told Mercedes Stephenson in an interview that aired Sunday on The West Block.

“It’s not complacency. It’s about changing to meet the threat environment.”

Asked if her unit is ready for an election, which could come at any time amid political tumult in Ottawa, Paradis said a plan is already in place for when the next campaign begins.

“We know if it’s called tomorrow, we’re ready for it,” she said. “We’ve done this before.”

She said a pamphlet of personal safety information and best practices will be sent to candidates, along with who to call within the RCMP “if the hairs on the back of your neck are standing up.”

Members of the RCMP will be prepared to travel to multiple cities across the country to ensure round-the-clock protection, she added.