Canadian Police Week, which ran from May 11-15, 2015, began in Canada in 1970 as a way to connect with communities and increase awareness about the services that police provide. During Police Week, the RCMP recognizes the important role that police play in the safety and security of Canadians, at home and abroad.
Left to right: Darlene Beck, CAO, Roseanne Macfagden, Financial Officer, Cpl. Joe Duncan, Cross Lake RCMP, Chief Kathy Merrick, Pimicikamak Cree Nation(PCN), Vice Chief Shirley Robinson, PCN, and Councillor William Osborne Justice portfolio PCN.
Locally, RCMP detachments across the province were also celebrating the week by arranging special activities within their communities to highlight the work they do and also promote and enhance the positive relationships we have with the many residents we serve. Many detachments held open house events, during which community members were able to visit and meet some of their officers, support staff and volunteers. Some of these events included barbecues and detachment tours.
Recognizing youth as an important priority, our officers across the province took part in several events involving students from all grades and ages. Dozens of schools were visited, during which safety talks on topics such as overall safety, bullying and social media were given. Acknowledging the fact that some of these students will one day become the leaders of our communities, establishing positive relationships with the younger generations is an investment that only makes sense.
Also, some of our officers were hosting career presentations to promote what our police officers do. There is no other police force that provides the levels of services and variety offered by the RCMP.
In 2015, Canada Road Safety Week coincided with Canadian Police Week, prompting many events to focus on enhancing safety on our roads for everyone involved, including motorists, cyclists and pedestrian alike. From bike rodeos in schools to larger scale media events, our officers made sure to spread the road safety message.
This week, one of our officers actually worked at Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen in Selkirk. This is one of the many examples that demonstrate our commitment to get involved in positive opportunities to engage with all segments of our population.
This year’s Canadian Police Week was a huge success throughout our communities, and the Manitoba RCMP already looks forward to next year.
