Posted on 03/29/2012, 11:25 am, by mySteinbach

The federal and provincial governments have reached an agreement to renew Manitoba’s RCMP policing contract for another 20 years. This announcement was made by Canada’s Public Safety Minister, Vic Toews, and Manitoba’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Andrew Swan.

“Today is a significant milestone for RCMP Contract Policing,” said Minister Toews. “I am very pleased to announce that the Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba have reached an agreement that will continue the relationship between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the people of Manitoba for the next two decades.”

“This new contract means the RCMP will continue to provide the excellent level of police service that Manitobans have come to rely on,” said Manitoba Justice Minister Andrew Swan. “The agreements provide the provinces with greater financial accountability and measures to monitor and contain costs over time. We’re pleased to conclude a deal that provides such a balanced approach. It strengthens governance while improving the relationship between the RCMP and its contract partners.”

“Through the new Agreement, Manitoba will have increased input into issues affecting the cost, quality and standards of Contract Policing before decisions are made at the federal level,” said Minister Toews. “In renewing this Agreement for the next 20 years, we have collectively set the stage for a modernized police service model that will continue to be respected around the world.”

The Government of Canada negotiated with all contract provinces and territories for almost four years to arrive at an Agreement that addresses the interests of all parties. The new Agreement addresses key issues raised by the provinces and territories, including governance, accountability, program sustainability and cost containment. At the same time, it will ensure that communities continue to receive the most efficient, effective and sustainable police services possible