New Security Pass Protocols – Ottawa Courthouse

As was reported in our July 15th Newsletter, it is anticipated that the Elgin Street entrance to the Courthouse will be opened at the end of August. With that, new security procedures and protocols will be implemented to accompany the new security equipment. Security at the Ottawa Courthouse is the responsibility of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and as such they have established the security procedures and protocols in conjunction with the Ottawa Courthouse Security Committee, which is comprised of all the major stakeholders of the Courthouse.

The Elgin Street entrance will be the only entry point into the Courthouse for everyone entering the building. All persons entering the building will need to go through the security screening (metal detectors) that will be in place. The screening machines will be operated by private security, but there will be armed Ottawa Police Officers at the front entrance during business hours.

Security passes to access the building will be available to CCLA and DCAO Members in good standing (lawyers, paralegals, articling & law students), which will allow members to bypass the public screening process through an optical portal that is activated by a valid Ottawa Courthouse Security Pass. CCLA Members will continue to enjoy 24-7 access to the Library only. The procedures for after hours and weekend access remains the same requiring everyone to sign in and out at the Information/ Security Desk. The CCLA and DCAO will be ensuring the that Information/Security Desk has current and up to date membership lists for its members. If you already have a Ottawa Courthouse Security Pass and it works you can continue to use it as long as you are still a member in good standing of either the CCLA or DCAO. 

The Security Pass Application Protocol For CCLA & DCAO Members can be found here. Please review this for the full details on how to apply. The Application Form and where to send it can be found here. 

We would also encourage you to remind all those who will be coming to the Ottawa Courthouse that they will be required to go through a security screening and to therefore allow extra time for that process once the Elgin Street entrance reopens. 

The CCLA will provide you with any additional updates to the either the opening of the Elgin Street entrance or the security procedures and protocols as they are made available.