The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Felix Collins, Minister of Justice:

Minister Recognizes Police during National Police Week

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in the House of Assembly to recognize May 13 to 19 as National Police Week.

National Police Week highlights the dedication and high-quality policing that both the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) display each and every day. Both police forces are focused on building strong community relationships.

Mr. Speaker, National Police Week helps both forces achieve their goals of increasing community awareness of policing services. Throughout the week, a series of events will take place across the province which will highlight this commitment to strengthen the close bond between policing and communities. Today and tomorrow, police and military will be available to meet with the public at a showcase being held at Canadian Forces Station St. John’s to discuss careers in policing and the military. Other events such as open houses, community lunches and displays will be held at various venues throughout the week.

Perhaps one of the most touching events of National Police Week will be held on Wednesday. Every year, peace officers and supporters gather at the annual International Police and Peace Officer Memorial Service to remember and honour officers who have died in the line of duty. This service recognizes the role peace officers have in keeping all of us safe and acknowledges that they often work in dangerous situations. I am honoured to represent the province at this service this year which will take place at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in St. John’s. Throughout the year, citizens can also visit the police and peace officer memorial here on the grounds of Confederation Building.

Mr. Speaker, the Department of Justice and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador proudly support the men and women of the RCMP and RNC. Since 2004, policing budgets have increased by over $52 million and there are an additional 145 police officers deployed throughout the province. Budget 2012 provided funding for an RNC officer for the Child Exploitation Unit, the continuation of the redevelopment of the RNC headquarters and $4.1 million towards the new RCMP contract.

Mr. Speaker, I thank our police officers for the difficult work they do every day and encourage everyone to participate in the many activities planned for National Police Week.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

2012 05 14                             2:35 p.m.