The Year In Brief

Strengthen security


In 2013–14, CAS initiated a number of activities to strengthen its intelligence-led security strategies and to better identify potential security threats and mitigation strategies. These activities included the completion of a Federal Courts System Threat and Risk Assessment (TRA) which led to a review of CAS's National Security Strategy and the development of an action plan to address the findings of the TRA. The assessment is a key strategic driver in identifying the security level required to protect members of the courts, employees, court users and the public.

CAS consulted with central agencies and key stakeholders to review the adequacy of the legislative framework for providing court security and to confirm roles and responsibilities. Work was initiated in consultation with the members of the courts to begin implementation of some of the TRA recommendations as part of the CAS national security program.

A Directive on Security Management was developed to support decision-making and accountability for CAS security activities. The Directive strengthens governance and management of departmental security operations, ensuring that related initiatives are centrally coordinated, regionally harmonized and systematically woven into day-to-day operations and court business.

As part of its security strategies, CAS refined its Hearing Risk Management Process (HRMP) to identify as early as possible potential threats and risks associated with the conduct of hearings and corresponding security measures to mitigate those risks. The (HRMP) will facilitate the consistent application of security measures across the country.

Finally, CAS developed a Strategic Emergency Management Plan to ensure appropriate responses to emergency situations are aligned with government-wide emergency management practices and protocols. CAS also began reviewing its business continuity plans to minimize or mitigate the potential impacts of significant incidents or catastrophic events that could interrupt essential services.