Parliament to step up security against terror threat

The government plans to introduce tough new security measures around the federal parliament, according to De Morgen, which has obtained access to a secret document drafted by the parliament’s security chief.

The plan – the latest in a series of measures introduced to tighten security in Belgium following the Charlie Hebdo killings in Paris and the shooting of two terrorists in Verviers last month – was commissioned by House of Representatives speaker Siegfried Bracke and Senate speaker Christine Defraigne. It was drawn up by the head of the parliament’s military police force, Harry Vindevogel.

The report cites a number of security loopholes including antiquated security cameras, poorly guarded entrances and lax security checks, said De Morgen.

Vindevogel suggests a number of improvements including new automatic doors to restrict entry, a central control room and compulsory badges for everyone entering the building. The total cost of the recommended measures was estimated at between €175,000 and €250,000.

Until now, ease of access to the parliament (pictured) has been considered a basic principle of Belgian democracy, allowing citizens to monitor their elected representatives.

Photo courtesy Klever/Wikimedia Commons