CKPG File Image

By Caden Fanshaw

Police Reform

Indigenous leaders see potential B.C. police reform as step in the right direction

May 4, 2022 | 5:39 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – As the future of policing in British Columbia begins to be shaped Indigenous leaders are looking forward to a new direction as is the Superintendent of the Prince George RCMP.

In April, the Transforming Policing and Community Safety report from the BC Special Committee on Reforming the Police Act was released. In that report, 11 recommendations for the future of policing were released including calling for a new BC provincial police force, better mental health resources, and engaging with Indigenous communities on their community policing needs.

Several Indigenous organizations applauded the recommendations including the BC Assembly of First Nations and the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) who called the work long overdue.

Province to streamline permitting of major electrical infrastructure

10h ago

Cougars

Cougars acquisitions take part in first home practice at CN Centre

12h ago

Senior Housing

New housing development takes big step forward

12h ago

Superintendent Shaun Wright said the recommendations around the mental health act along with the tiered level of a police response stood out for him.

Wright said the changes put forward by the special committee are realistic.

In a statement, the BCFNJC and the First Nations Leadership Council said they expect all Members of the Legislative Assembly to take bold and swift action to support immediate and full implementation of the recommendations of the Special Committee.

The joint press release added a collective sense of urgency is required to ensure this province, and indeed this country is safe for all those who call it home; in particular, Indigenous people who continue to pay the price of colonialism with their lives.