Canada Games security co-chair quits
The co-chair of the security committee at the Canada Games, opening in Halifax on Friday evening, has stepped down, citing concerns over a lack of resources.
Sgt. Dave Worrell of the Halifax Regional Police was co-chair of the volunteer security committee, but stepped down earlier this week.
In a leaked email to a media outlet, Worrell said he did not think he had the necessary resources to secure the event to his standards.
Police officers and security guards are in charge of keeping athletes and spectators safe at the Canada Games, which run until Feb. 27. Some will be paid and others are volunteers.
Chris Morrissey, CEO of the Canada Games, confirmed Worrell had left.
"He did have some concerns around some of the resources that were offered to the security committee and he thought at that point in time that he wasn't able to participate in a meaningful way, so he decided to move on," Morrissey said.
Canada Games officials said Friday they are comfortable with the level of security.
At a news conference, Morrisey, said the level of security suits a national event and is comparable to other Canada Games.
Morrisey said the number of security people Worrell was asking for would only be needed for an international event.
He added there will be overnight secuity on all hotel floors where the Canada Games athletes are staying.
Worrell's complaints stem from a security plan that was developed 18 months ago. In the email, he expressed concerns to organizers about a drop in security staff and equipment, such as vehicles and cellphones.
"Certainly things have changed from an 18-month-old plan, but we will make sure that these games will be very safe for all participants involved," Morrissey said.
Morrissey said he stood by the plans. The Halifax Regional Police also stand by the security plan, said Staff Sgt. Reid McCoombs.
"Our standpoint is that Sgt. Worrell was acting in a volunteer capacity and his particular opinion does not reflect the opinion of the Halifax Regional Police as an organization," he said.
Worrell could not be reached for comment.
