Speech from the Throne - Update on RCMP Efforts
Date: May 4, 2021
Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Fully releasable (ATIP)? Yes
Branch/Agency: RCMP
Issue:
The 2020 Speech from the Throne highlighted priorities around modernizing training for law enforcement, use of force standards, and RCMP reforms with a shift toward community-led policing as part of Government’s efforts to address systemic racism and discrimination.
Proposed Response:
- Budget 2021 proposes to provide the RCMP with $75M over five years and $13.5 million ongoing to support efforts to address systemic racism and discrimination. This will further assist in implementing the Commissioner’s robust plan in advancing equity, diversity and trust.
- Significant progress has been made towards modernizing and transforming the way the RCMP functions. The RCMP is intensifying its consultations with Indigenous, northern, rural and racialized communities to expand and align the range of service delivery options, including supporting community-led safety models.
- The RCMP is modernizing its police officer recruitment program, and has introduced mandatory training courses to ensure cadets receive the knowledge and skills to work effectively with diverse people and communities.
- In addition, the RCMP initiated a body worn camera pilot project, currently operational in Iqaluit, which will inform a national approach to implementing body worn cameras across Canada. In parallel, the RCMP is collaborating with other police services in the review of existing national de-escalation and crisis intervention models to address police intervention.
- All Canadians must have trust and confidence in police. The Commissioner and I remain committed to pursuing important steps to enhance the relationship between the RCMP and the communities it serves, eliminate systemic racism and discrimination and support efforts to modernize policing practices.
Background:
The 2020 Speech from the Throne highlighted the following issues as priorities for the government related to the RCMP: 1) Modernize training for police and law enforcement, including addressing standards around the use of force; and 2) Move forward on RCMP reforms, with a shift toward community-led policing.
Over the past two years, the RCMP developed and launched its modernization project: “Vision 150”. The plan’s goals are to build a healthier, more diverse and professional workforce to support leading-edge policing, with the ultimate objective of a modern and inclusive RCMP culture.
Considerable progress and work are underway. For example, to address systemic racism and discrimination, the RCMP is modernizing the recruitment and training processes; advancing the collection, analysis, and reporting of race-based data; more rapidly evaluating the impact of policing activities on certain communities; and, improving community engagement and consultation with Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities. Budget 2021 has announced $75M over 5 Years and $13.5M ongoing to support these efforts.
As interim steps in relation to police intervention, the RCMP is implementing improvements to strengthen public trust in police interactions, including:
- Updated training on integrated crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques within a variety of police intervention training, including the Incident Management Intervention Model (IMIM), Scenario Based Training, Public and Police Instructor Course, and the Conducted Energy Weapon Instructor and User Course;
- A re-designed IMIM graphic, recognizing that training and IMIM will continue to be updated based on comprehensive police-community consultations under the auspices of the Chiefs of Police Roundtable;
- Release of the 2010-2019 Police Intervention Options Report for data transparency;
- Creation of a Modernization Strategy for Public and Police Safety Intervention Equipment that considers additional de-escalation/less lethal options, including body-worn cameras; and,
- Implementation of a mandatory review and accountability processes.
The RCMP’s community-based policing approach is supported by enhanced service delivery options (e.g., Community Program Officers, Auxiliaries); crime reduction units that convert data into actionable intelligence for frontline police officers; and, leveraging best practices in crime prevention/crime reduction initiatives from across Canada (e.g. Rural Crime Toolbox). The RCMP also engages regularly with Indigenous, northern and rural communities to develop solutions reflective of locally identified priorities.
In addition to the efforts identified above, the RCMP will continue modernization efforts through other measures such as:
- advancing reconciliation efforts;
- strengthening leadership training;
- advancing the national plan to end gender-based violence;
- creating a safe and respectful workplace free from harassment;
- continuing action to address online hate; and,
- increasing representation in hiring and appointments, etc.
The RCMP is committed to providing bias-free policing, continuing consultations with individuals and communities, and providing services that reflect the evolving needs and realities of the communities the organization serves.
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