This is in response to a question asked by Mr. Koe on the 26th of April regarding outside employment of RCMP officers. Mr. Koe asked what the policy was for RCMP officers seeking private sector opportunities, especially relating to liquor outlets in northern communities.
The RCMP have a policy on conflict of interest and outside employment which as been designed for all members of the force at all locations in Canada. Although it would not be a breach of the RCMP code of conduct for a member to apply for a licence for a liquor outlet, the member would be investigated for conflict of interest if the member was successful in his or her application.
In the case of a successful application for a liquor license by a member stationed in a small northern community, it is likely that he or she would be declared in a conflict and be ordered to immediately abandon or withdraw from the licence. If the member refused to obey the order, he or she would be in breach of the RCMP code of conduct and subject to disciplinary action, which could include dismissal from the force. Thank you.