News release

Suspicious Packages Arrive at Several N.S. Justice Centres

Justice
Internal Services (June 2014 - May 2019)

Nova Scotia's justice centres are on alert after suspicious packages were delivered to a number of provincial courthouses today, May 5.

The packages, which came from Asia, are connected to similar packages that were sent to courthouses in Western Canada in April, and to the Amherst Justice Centre yesterday. In Amherst, four court staff went to hospital after experiencing dizziness, nausea and sore throat. They were examined and later released.

"The safety of our staff and the public is our highest priority," said Justice Minister Lena Metlege Diab. "Alerts have been sent out to all our courts and other departments of government urging them to be vigilant.

"Police have been notified and we have also re-enforced safety protocols with court staff to ensure any suspicious letter or package is handled appropriately," said Ms. Diab. "I also want to praise our court staff for their vigilance today and yesterday. They were ready, and alert to the potential threat."

The letters were delivered to Truro Supreme Court, Kentville Justice Centre, Bridgewater Justice Centre and the Halifax Law Courts. The law courts were evacuated as a precaution on the advice of local authorities.

Local police forces are investigating.

Similar packages were received at provincial court buildings in Winnipeg, Brandon, Morden and Minnedosa in early April. All of the packages in Manitoba tested negative for chemicals that could be dangerous to the public.

There have been no reported health concerns from employees related to the letters arriving at justice centres today.

"These matters are now in the hands of police," said Ms. Diab.

There will be further updates, once more is known.