Update on the Government’s Initiatives in the Aftermath of the Sept. 11 Attack on the U.S.

October 1, 2001

On Saturday, the Prime Minister travelled to New York City to express the sympathy and solidarity of Canadians with the people of New York and the families of the Canadian victims in the wake of the terrorist attacks that destroyed the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

As a sign of the depth of our national solidarity, he was joined by the leaders of the other recognized parties in House of Commons, as well as the Deputy-Speaker of the House of Commons and the Speaker of the Senate.

This solemn occasion of remembrance further reinforced the Prime Minister’s determination to improve domestic security, information sharing and investigation methods, as well as our working relationships with other governments to deal with new and emerging threats.

Here are some of the most recent developments in Canada’s fight against terrorism:

Last Friday, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1373, calling on all member states to freeze without delay the assets of those who commit or attempt to commit terrorist acts or facilitate the commission of terrorist acts.

This resolution represents an important milestone in the fight against terrorism and a critical tool for international action.

Canada will act rapidly to implement its provisions.

Last week, the Prime Minister appointed a Special Cabinet Committee on Security. It is Chaired by Foreign Affairs Minister John Manley.

The Committee will forward proposals and make suggestions for additional legislative or regulatory changes that would be appropriate in the circumstances created by the attacks of September 11.