Investments in Policing Show Strong Commitment
to the Safety and Protection of Communities

Justice Minister Tom Marshall today announced a commitment to enhance public safety throughout the province with investments in police resources, training and equipment as part of Budget 2004. This funding will assist with the development of a long-term policing strategy for the training, development and retention of police officers, which is a top priority of the Department of Justice.

"We are pleased with the decision to invest in policing and provide police officers with funding for improved tools to protect and enforce the safety of communities and citizens across the province," stated Minister Marshall. "These are strong initiatives in response to resource and equipment difficulties experienced by police officers, and we feel confident that government�s actions will make improvements to the policing system."

Policing initiatives as announced in Budget 2004 include a Police Officers Training Program which will recruit, train and introduce 75 police officers to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) over a three-year period. This recruitment includes 15 new RNC positions in each of the three years, and the balance of 10 officers per year through attrition. New officers will be introduced into the RNC in 2005. This initiative includes $35,000 in each of the next three years to support development and recruitment activities for training at Memorial University, and $2.25 million to hire 45 new RNC officers by 2007-08.

Funding to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary includes $625,000 for the purchase of new vehicles, $220,000 for equipment, and training funding to the value of $240,000. This financial support for the RNC supports the recommendations put forth by Judge Luther as part of the Reid/Power Inquiry.

Budget 2004 also makes provision for the addition of four Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers in Labrador to help address the needs of policing services, and strengthen police presence in the communities of Sheshatshui, Rigolet and Makkovik. As well, funding of $520,000 for the new RCMP Telecommunications System for the areas of the Avalon, Bonavista and Burin Peninsulas will positively impact police officer and public safety.

"These initiatives will provide police officers with improved resources to carry out their responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner, and ensure that citizens of the province can live in a society which is safe, fair, accessible and efficient," added Minister Marshall.

Media contact: Heather Donovan, Communications (709) 729-6985 or 690-2498

2004 03 30                                    2:50 p.m.