EDMONTON, ALBERTA, August 19, 2011 - Public Safety Minister, Vic Toews and Alberta Premier, Ed Stelmach, today announced that the federal and provincial governments have reached an agreement to renew Alberta's RCMP policing contract for another 20 years. The announcement was made at an official signing ceremony in Edmonton today.
"Today is a significant milestone for RCMP Contract Policing," said Minister Toews. "I am very pleased to announce that after almost four years of negotiations, the Government of Canada and the Province of Alberta have reached agreement that will continue the relationship between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the people of Alberta for the next two decades."
"This is wonderful news for the province and for Albertans," said Premier Ed Stelmach. "This agreement makes good financial sense for Alberta and strengthens a valuable relationship with a partner who continues to play a key role after more than a century keeping Alberta communities safe. I would like to thank everyone involved in ironing out this deal to keep the RCMP in Alberta, which has been a priority for our government."
"This new agreement is a critical step forward for both Alberta and the RCMP," said Frank Oberle, Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security. "It establishes a modern relationship built on consultation, respect for each other's roles and responsibilities, and an understanding of each other's needs. RCMP contract policing has been an effective model across Canada for many years, and this renewed relationship will help us address the rapidly evolving, cross-jurisdictional nature of crime."
"Now that we have reached agreement with Alberta, the Government of Canada looks forward to reaching similar agreements with the remaining provinces and territories before the end of November 2011," said Minister Toews. "The terms of the Agreement reached with Alberta represent excellent value to Canadians and are available to all contract provinces and territories."
The Government of Canada has been working with the provinces and territories for almost four years to arrive at a draft agreement that addresses the interests of all parties, including key issues such as governance and accountability. These agreements will ensure that communities continue to receive the most efficient, effective and sustainable police services possible.
Information:
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Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
