NORAD will still track Santa despite government shut down

Parts of the American government have shut down after politicians failed to agree a budget because of a row about Donald Trump's border wall.

Many federal employees face no pay after their departments' funding ran out.

But one service that is guaranteed is Norad's Santa tracking system, which is eagerly watched by children around the world on Christmas Eve.

"A government shut down does not relieve us of our obligations to protect the citizens of Canada and the US," said Captain Cameron Hillier.

"However, for NORAD Track Santa, in addition to the military personnel that are supporting the programme, we have those 1,500 volunteers who lend a tremendous helping hand."

In the event of a government shutdown, NORAD will continue with its 63-year tradition of NORAD Tracks Santa on Dec. 24. Military personnel who conduct NORAD Tracks Santa are supported by approximately 1,500 volunteers who make the program possible each and every year. pic.twitter.com/fY0oyjrdDc

— U.S. Northern Command (@USNorthernCmd) December 21, 2018