The national RCMP union has raised concerns over a report by the Alberta Next Panel, which it deems as misleading. Brian Sauvé, head of the National Police Federation, criticized the panel for attempting to revive a proposal that had been previously rejected by Albertans. He also highlighted that the panel’s report relies on outdated references and inaccurate federal policies to support its recommendations.
The Alberta Next Panel, spearheaded by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, sought public input on enhancing the relationship with the federal government through surveys and town hall meetings. The panel recently released its recommendations, emphasizing the need to transition the RCMP’s community policing services to a provincial entity due to concerns about the federal police force’s effectiveness.
The report mentioned a shortage of 500 unfilled positions within the police force, which accounts for a significant portion of officers paid for by the province and municipalities. It proposed that Alberta adopt a provincial police service similar to Ontario and Quebec, suggesting that the province could handle this responsibility as it grows in size.
The panel predicted that the federal government would withdraw from provincial policing by 2032 when current agreements expire. However, Sauvé disputed these claims, labeling the report as politically motivated and distorting the actual situation. He emphasized that the federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to RCMP contract policing beyond 2032.
In response to the union’s criticisms, Albertaâs Ministry of Public Safety and Emergency Services stated that it is reviewing the panel’s recommendations and taking steps to enhance public safety in the province. The ministry highlighted that the Alberta Sheriffs Police Service will complement existing law enforcement agencies, including the RCMP, municipal police, and First Nations police services.
The Alberta Next Panel’s report indicated that the RCMP covers about 20% of Albertans under the federal-provincial agreement, prompting discussions on the need for a provincewide referendum. However, Alberta RCMP deputy commissioner Trevor Daroux contested this figure, stating that Mounties patrol 95% of the province’s area and serve around 40% of its population.
Despite challenges in recruiting and retaining officers, Daroux mentioned that the RCMP has received over 4,600 applications since April 2024 and is actively working to bolster its workforce.