May 14, 2014
The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Justice:
Newfoundland and Labrador Marks National Police Week
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in this Honourable House to recognize National Police Week in Canada which runs from May 11 to 17. Police Week provides us with the opportunity to acknowledge the tireless efforts made by the members of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police toward making our communities as safe as possible.
Being a police officer is often difficult work, requiring strength of character and immense dedication. However, having spoken to officers from both police services since becoming the Minister of Justice, I can also confirm that it is very rewarding work as well.
Police Week is not simply about recognizing the services that our law enforcement officials provide; it is also about celebrating the relationship between police and community. Every day, officers work to establish ties in the community and the relationships that develop with residents of all ages are important for improving safety and quality of life.
Over the past few days, both the RNC and the RCMP have been engaging in a number of activities across the province to promote National Police Week. On Monday, I attended a cake-cutting ceremony to launch the celebrations at St. Francis of Assisi School in Outer Cove and I thank the students and staff for being so welcoming. Other activities this week include a distracted driving display at the Avalon Mall, a crime prevention lunch, and the Citizen Recognition Awards. I encourage everyone to come out and participate in these events.
Mr. Speaker, this morning I had the honour of attending the International Peace Officers’ Memorial Service at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in St. John’s. At the ceremony, we commemorated those police and peace officers who have died in the line of duty in this province, reflected on the unfortunate loss of life and celebrated the work that they carried out. Their ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.
The Provincial Government is committed to supporting our police services. Since 2004 we have invested approximately $1 billion in policing in Newfoundland and Labrador and Budget 2014 includes approximately $5 million in additional funding. Through this investment, the RNC will grow by 20 new recruits by 2016-17 and the RCMP will hire five new officers this year for Labrador. Budget 2014 also includes additional funding to support the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit – Newfoundland and Labrador, a unit which combats organized crime, child exploitation and illegal drugs.
On behalf of the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador, I congratulate all our law enforcement officials on a successful Police Week, and I extend the most sincere thank you to them for the work they do in making Newfoundland and Labrador the best place in which to live, work and raise a family.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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2014 05 14 3:15 p.m.