Rise of the Rent-a-Cop: Private Security in Canada, 1991-2001

Abstract

This article provides answers to questions about the size of the security and investigation services industry in Canada. Using Statistics Canada data sources, a profile of the industry is developed. The private security industry in Canada grew dramatically between 1991 and 2001. Employment increased by 69%, from 46,651 in 1991 to 78,919 in 2001. Growth was strongest in the latter years of the study period. All provinces for which data were available experienced growth in employment. Most security employees are men. Revenues in 2000 for security and investigation services were approximately $2.7 billion.