Ernie Eves announces new security precautions

Ontario Premier Ernie Eves tonight announced emergency measures taken in response to the war in Iraq.

The premier (shown in a SooToday file photo), said that special efforts will be made to work with U.S. officials to "secure safe and efficient border clearance of people, goods and shipments."

The following is the full text of a news release issued by the premier at 5:30 p.m. today.

******************************************************************* Eves takes action to assure safety and security of Ontarians in wake of war in Iraq

TORONTO, March 20 - Ernie Eves, Ontario's Premier, today said the government is taking all possible measures to ensure Ontarians' safety and security and protect the province's economy.

Eves spoke following a meeting with Cabinet members and the Ontario Security Council that was convened to confirm the province's plans concerning the war in Iraq.

"Even though the Canadian government has chosen not to participate in the war, we in Ontario cannot ignore its possible effects," said Eves.

"While we have received no specific threats, as a responsible government, we are heightening our preparations for any contingency."

The Premier announced a number of specific contingency measures and requested that Bob Runciman, Minister of Public Safety and Security, take charge of emergency preparations.

Measures include:

- Ensuring enhanced OPP availability

- Increasing security at identified potential targets that are under government control

- Intensifying security at Ontario's own nuclear plants and calling on the Prime Minister to ensure the safety of all nuclear facilities in the province

- Requesting through Emergency Management Ontario that municipalities and owners of large buildings have contingency plans ready

- Providing additional resources for the police Repeat Offender and Parolee Enforcement (ROPE) squad to track down people who are in the country illegally

The Premier also announced he has asked Jim Flaherty, Minister of Enterprise, Opportunity and Innovation, to work with the U.S. to secure safe and efficient border clearance of people, goods and shipments.

"Our businesses need every advantage to remain strong and competitive," said Eves.

"I want to make it clear Ontario is still open for business."

Eves added: "We all want and pray for peace. But true peace comes only with security. In that, there can be no equivocation or neutrality. In the coming days, all of us will be called upon to display qualities of vigilance and strength, tolerance and calm.

"Ontario is home to individuals of diverse backgrounds who live together in harmony and mutual respect. Let that continue."

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