RCMP expands Reserve Program for former police officers
OTTAWA, May 14, 2018 /CNW/ - Since 2004, the RCMP's Reserve Program has provided experienced police officers with an opportunity to continue serving Canadians, while helping the RCMP provide short-term operational relief when more police resources are needed.
OTTAWA, May 14, 2018 /CNW/ - Since 2004, the RCMP's Reserve Program has provided experienced police officers with an opportunity to continue serving Canadians, while helping the RCMP provide short-term operational relief when more police resources are needed.
Reservists are experienced police officers who have retired or resigned in good standing. They are hired to provide valuable support for full-time members who are on leave, or during special events or emergencies.
Treasury Board has authorized the RCMP to expand this essential program from 400 to 1200 reservists. The RCMP will also begin accepting applications from former police officers of other Canadian law enforcement agencies in the near future.
The RCMP Reserve Program provides flexibility to temporarily back-fill positions quickly, without taking serving police officers away from their duties or increasing their workload.
Quotes
"Keeping Canadians safe requires the flexibility to respond to unexpected events and to effectively manage short-term leave. Expanding the RCMP Reserve Program is an effective way of enhancing the RCMP's ability to respond to fluctuating requirements for trained and experienced police officers. For regular members, it helps prevent stress and burnout from excessive overtime. For reservists, it offers an opportunity to serve their community and earn extra income, without having to make a long-term commitment. It is a useful tool to help keep Canadians safe and protect their rights."
The Honourable Ralph Goodale
Canada's Minister of Public Safety
"More than 18,000 RCMP officers proudly serve millions of Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast. The RCMP reservists are dedicated and experienced police officers who provide temporary operational relief to our members, and help keep communities safe. The expansion of the RCMP Reserve Program will help us continue to serve Canadians with professionalism and excellence."
Brenda Lucki
RCMP Commissioner
Quick facts
- The RCMP continues to ramp up the training of new officers. It enrolled 1,152 new cadets in 2017–18, almost triple the number from five years ago. There will be 1,280 cadet openings this fiscal year and an additional 1,280 the next.
- RCMP reservists have the same responsibilities, powers and duties as regular members.
- RCMP regulations limit the length of a reservist's appointment to up to three years.
- All applicants must have a minimum two years of police experience, be a graduate of a Canadian police training institution, and have successfully completed a field coaching program. They are also required to meet the same medical and fitness standards as serving RCMP regular members.
- Reservists are funded through existing budgets.
Associated links
SOURCE Royal Canadian Mounted Police
