Courthouse security upgrades complete with metal detectors in Gatineau

Tashi Farmilo

Walk-through metal detectors began operating March 25 at the Gatineau courthouse, the Quebec government announced, completing a province-wide security enhancement program first pledged in 2024.

The new equipment, installed at the main entrance of the courthouse at 170 rue de l'Hôtel-de-ville, means the public can no longer enter through doors on rue Laurier. Visitors are being advised to allow extra time before hearings, as wait times at the screening stations are expected. Failing to pass through security does not exempt anyone from their legal obligation to appear in court on time.

The Gatineau installation marks the final phase of a $31-million investment the province announced in June 2024 to modernize security across Quebec's busiest courthouses. Of that sum, $7.6 million was earmarked for new and upgraded equipment across the court network, while $23.4 million was directed toward training and hiring additional special constables.

Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette said the completion of the program delivers on a commitment made nearly two years ago. "In June 2024, we made a commitment to make our courthouses safer and more modern by enhancing security measures in high-traffic facilities," he said. "With today's announcement, we are demonstrating that we have acted to foster a greater sense of security in our courthouses, for the benefit of the public."

Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière acknowledged that serious incidents in Quebec courthouses remain rare but said the investment reflects a preventive approach. "We continue to equip them with tools to prevent these incidents in order to ensure the safety of everyone," he said. "I want to commend the work of the special constables who are present at the detection stations: their vigilance and expertise are essential for these new pieces of equipment to have the intended effect on security levels in our courthouses."

Mathieu Lévesque, MNA for Chapleau and deputy government house leader, said the upgrades serve a broader purpose for the public's relationship with the justice system. "A courthouse must be a place that inspires confidence and in which one feels safe," he said. "I welcome the implementation of these additional security measures, which will help make the justice system experience more reassuring for the citizens of Chapleau, Gatineau and the Outaouais."