Ottawa attack draws local political reaction

A tragic and frightening day for everyone in the country — yesterday’s shooting sparked security measures not just in Ottawa, but in Nova Scotia as well.

Here in Halifax, politicians are trying to make sense of the tragedy in the nation’s capital.

Premier Stephen McNeil said it’s an attack on all of us.

“These are direct attacks on the institutions that we as a democracy stand by,” he said. “And it’s important for all of us to continue to make sure we strengthen and support those institutions, and the men and women in uniform.”

While the Nova Scotia legislature was in lockdown yesterday with extra security standing guard during proceedings, Progressive Conservative leader Jamie Baillie said continuing with the day was a noble decision.

“Despite the security, I’m glad that the House of Assembly is meeting today, because we need to make the point that this country goes on no matter what happens.”

Only people with official passes were let into Province House yesterday, and two extra police officers were called in as well.

In a speech given last night by the prime minister, Stephen Harper addressed the country and said, “we will not be intimidated, Canada will never be intimidated.”