I wish to applaud RCMP Commissioner William Elliot for his initiative to have the disciplinary provisions of the RCMP Act strengthened to enable the force to deal more effectively and efficiently in the discipline of members whose flagrant conduct is unbecoming a member of the force.
It is imperative for the RCMP, or for any other police force for that matter, that it has the tools to properly uphold the proper discipline and conduct of its members. When a membership fails to uphold the law as well as to enforce it, and breaches his or her oath of office, he or she needs to be dealt with properly and effectively, not only in the interest of justice and for the sake of those members who faithfully carry out their duties and their reputation, but in the interest and confidence of the public whom they serve.
It is unavoidable that every organization will have some employees who are ill-suited for the job, and the RCMP can expect the same. But these types need to be weeded out in the interest of public good and without undo delay.
By the same token, a police force must, of necessity, hold its members to a higher standard than any other organization if it is to retain the public trust and confidence of its citizens.
I urge our parliamentarians, regardless of their political leanings, and our courts, to uphold amendments to the RCMP Act regarding the disciplinary provisions, to enable the force to better govern its members, particularly those who are derelict in carrying out their duties and responsibilities in a timely manner that is reasonable and just. These proposed amendments are long overdue.
Don Nielsen, RCMP Insp. (Rtd.)
Red Deer