News release

Private Security Legislation Introduced

Justice

Nova Scotians will benefit from improved regulation of the private security industry in new legislation introduced today, April 9, by Justice Minister Ross Landry.

The development of the proposed bill, An Act Respecting the Provision of Security Services and Investigative Services, represents the first significant legislative change governing the security industry in 35 years.

"The current private security legislation is outdated and does not address public safety issues resulting from the current security environment, and the growth of the security industry," said Mr. Landry. "This legislation is long overdue."

The new bill will increase public trust and confidence in the security industry by ensuring those engaged in security activities are suitable, properly trained, and have a code of conduct.

It will implement mandatory training standards, and expand coverage to include licensing of bouncers, bodyguards, Canadian Corps of Commissionaires and in-house security guards and private investigators who interact with the public.

The legislation will bring Nova Scotia in line with other provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec.