Canada's First Responders state communications interoperability is a key concern

Dec 13, 2007

On 13 December, 2007 Prolity was invited to attend a luncheon sponsored by the Canadian Police Research Centre (CPRC) and the Canadian Advanced Technology Alliance (CATA). The purpose of the event was to discuss the findings of "Keeping Canadians Safe: A Technology, Research and Development, and Emergency Preparedness Situational Analysis of Canadian First Responders", released today by CATA and the CPRC.

A total of 144 Chiefs (or equivalent) from Fire, Police, Paramedic and Emergency Response Organizations responded to the study.

One of the most significant concerns raised by the study is the lack of interoperability at the equipment, procedural and governance levels.

"The fact that interoperability deficiencies came out as a top concern isn't surprising. This report will help to spur the innovation and adoption of effective interoperability solutions. " commented Paul de Grandpré, President of Prolity. "We have been working on means to improve interoperability across the board: communications equipment, procedures, governance and culture. Effective interoperability isn't just about technology, it's about changing how organizations interact at all levels."

Prolity supports the findings of the study and will continue to work with CATA and the CPRC on improving the capabilities available to Canada's First Responder community.