Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I appreciate the information on the briefing tomorrow, but that does not bring the information out to the public very well. My concern is, the people in the small communities do not understand why they do not qualify for RCMP presence. As an example, in the past, RCMP officers have stated more than once that they would prefer not to be the only officer in the communities. They would like support. In other words, they work better with two police officers rather than one. This was a concern as far as finding RCMP officers to stay in small communities because of the pressure on the RCMP officer. I recognize that. However, the communities are now asking how can this government expect a by-law officer to do the same job as a police officer, that the police would not do alone, but they expect the by-law officer to do it now, for less money? This is part of the concern I have right now. How are we going to address that situation? In Sachs Harbour, for instance, I have been advised that after the police officer was removed, and they did sign an MOU with the department, all they received was $3,000 toward the cost of supplying police services. Obviously, the question was where can you find someone who is willing to get shot at for $3,000? That was basically the way it was put to me. You cannot expect the small communities to supply the services that a fully-fledged RCMP would not supply on his own. They wanted backup services and nobody can blame them. That is my concern right now. How are we going to address bringing back safe police services like we said we were going to? Vision of safe and secure communities, supported and protected by an accessible, responsive and effective justice system. That is my concern right now. The people in the community are realizing that it is not that easy to supply police services, and they are requesting full RCMP services. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Vince Steen on Committee Motion 16-13(5): Recommendation To Formulate A Strategic Plan For Policing In The Western Territory And Nunavut
In the Legislative Assembly on February 18th, 1998. See this statement in context.
Committee Motion 16-13(5): Recommendation To Formulate A Strategic Plan For Policing In The Western Territory And Nunavut
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
February 18th, 1998
Page 924
See context to find out what was said next.