Richmond RCMP bomb sniffing dogs were fully put to task Tuesday morning at Vancouver International Airport, after officials raised the level of security following terrorist attacks at Brussels' international airport.
The airport’s CEO, Craig Richmond, told media that YVR was on a “heightened level of security,” although there was no specific directive from the federal government after The Islamic State (IS) group reportedly took responsibility for killing 30-plus people in two separate attacks in Brussels, Belgium, including one at Zavantem international airport.
Richmond had a scheduled public announcement to draw attention to the airport’s new contract with Xiamen Airlines. He began the event with a moment of silence for the victims of the attacks, which occurred around 12 a.m. PST.
YVR does not have any direct flights to Belgium and no flight delays were reported out of the airport on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Metro Vancouver Transit Police stated Tuesday the agency had taken extra security precautions along the transit system, including Canada Line stations at the airport.
On Tuesday, Hon. Ralph Goodale, the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness dd not report any credible threats to Canada.
“Canadians can be assured that when the security and intelligence sector receives a credible threat, they work with the appropriate partners to ensure the safety of our citizens.
“At this moment we have no reason to change Canada’s threat level. I encourage Canadians to stay alert and stay vigilant, and to report any unusual or suspicious behaviour to local police,” stated Goodale, via the ministry's website.
