Queen set to inspect international warships
Posted Jun 29, 2010 05:08:25 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The highlight of the Queen’s visit in Halifax happens Tuesday afternoon as she inspects the international flotilla of warships gathered in the city.
There may be some disruptions to the public, as traffic on the bridges, harbour ferries and on the water will be delayed for security reasons.
But further details of security arrangements for HER MAJESTY – including the cost – are being kept quiet.
The fleet review initially began as a wartime tradition when royalty would inspect ships before they were sent into battle. Now, as US Navy Adm. Gary Roughhead tells CTV, they’re held on special occasions.
“It’s something that is very special about navies, to have the Queen be here for navies and particularly for my navy, to be able to salute her,” he said. “To demonstrate to all who are here the linkage that we have with the Canadian navy.”
The Queen will board HMCS St. John’s at 2 p.m., to begin the review of dozens of ships from around the world currently berthed in Halifax Harbour.
“The HMCS St. John’s will basically go up and down the lines of ships and basically review each one as they go,” says Canadian Forces Maj. Paul Doucette.
Doucette says the best view comes from the Halifax or Dartmouth waterfront.
Security will be tight as police keep small pleasure boats at least 275 metres away from all the ships.
RCMP Commissioner William Elliot wouldn’t say exactly how much it’s costing to make sure the royal couple are safe during the event, and throughout their visit.
“Well it’s pretty significant,” he says. “I guess it pales in comparison to some of the other events that we’ve been very recently involved in including the G8, G20 and the Olympics.”
Meanwhile local RCMP say they aren’t prepared to release any numbers or details, but would say they have sufficient numbers to make sure the royal couple are safe.le are safe.
