The Office of the National Police Commissioner (Ríkislögreglustjóri) advocates for a continuous police presence at the Alþingishús, or Parliament House, located in Austurvöllur, Reykjavík. This initiative aims to enhance public safety and swiftly address potential threats, ensuring a vigilant environment around the clock.
In a letter submitted to the Alþingi’s budget committee, Speaker Þórunn Sveinbjarnardóttir outlined the rationale behind this proposal. Although police have traditionally provided security during parliamentary sessions, committee meetings, and various events, there is now a call for a dedicated 24-hour watch within the building. Implementing this plan would necessitate the establishment of six duty officer positions, with an estimated annual cost of ISK 154 million.
The speaker emphasized that beyond safeguarding the parliament members and staff, it is equally vital to protect the building itself, along with its cultural artifacts, equipment, and furnishings. She has urged the committee to consider the Police Commissioner’s recommendations and allocate the necessary funding to support this initiative.
The need for heightened security has been underscored by a recent incident: a man was apprehended within the parliamentary premises one October morning after spending the night inside without authorization. Initially, he convinced a Securitas security guard that he had legitimate business in the building, leading to the guard’s later dismissal.
The Alþingishús, constructed between 1880 and 1881, houses a wealth of historic artifacts, including numerous artworks—most notably, portraits of former parliamentary speakers. Investing in security measures not only serves to protect the individuals within but also to preserve these invaluable cultural treasures for future generations.
