FORCE 2.0: Fixing the Governance, Leadership, and Structure of the RCMP
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Authors
Leuprecht, Christian
Date
2017-09
Type
other
Language
en
Keyword
Alternative Title
Abstract
The government has put out the call for a new Commissioner to lead an RCMP that is confronted with a number of major issues: the impending creation of an independent employee association, increased review from the newly established National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (and potentially a new arm’s-length bureaucratic review body proposed in Bill C-59), and a review of the RCMP’s mandate-contract. The last may even entail the transfer of some border duties to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). In addition, there are ongoing challenges such as allegations of pervasive harassment and bullying as well as a trial on violating the Canada Labour Code.
Outside observers are left with the impression of a dysfunctional organization. The symptoms manifest themselves publicly in class-action lawsuits, questions over leadership and equipment, recruitment shortfalls, complaints about compensation, and the Force generally being stretched too thin on too many fronts, particularly the requirement to meet contract policing requirements in much of the country. Governments have in the past responded by picking a new Commissioner and tasking him with an explicit mandate to “fix” the problems, alongside policy change, proposals for reform, and new legislation. This process essentially repeats about every five years, with little to show for it. Insanity, it is often said, is doing the same thing over and over, and expecting a different outcome.
The question is not just what kind of reform is necessary, but why changes have been so slow and difficult in coming – and what conditions are necessary to invigorate and sustain reform. The RCMP needs structural reform if we want to improve its performance and strengthen the professional aspects of policing while building the confidence that is required and expected of Canada’s federal police agency.
Description
Copyright © 2017 Macdonald-Laurier Institute. May be reproduced freely for non-profit and educational purposes.
Citation
Leuprecht, C. FORCE 2.0 Fixing the Governance, Leadership, and Structure of the RCMP. Macdonald-Laurier Institute, 2017.
Publisher
Macdonald-Laurier Institute