A workplace review of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary has been completed showing that “transformational changes” are needed to improve the workplace and morale within the RNC.

Harriet Lewis was appointed to conduct an independent workplace review following serious allegations and charges related to sexual misconduct involving certain officers and former officers.

She confirmed that there are issues that need to be addressed and has made a number of recommendations to improve morale and the RNC workplace.

As Lewis puts it, transformative change requires time, “visionary leadership” and additional resources.

Like many workplaces, Lewis concludes that the RNC has had to “make do” with less, including a shortage of both human and financial resources.

Among those challenges is a difficulty in recruiting cadets and the difficulty in keeping civilian employees, with a large number of officers approaching retirement.

Lewis also identified a number of areas in need of attention including greater communication, the status and remuneration of civilian employees, the way in which the internal disciplinary process is carried out, confusion and the “unpleasantness” surrounding promotion exercises and job competition among other things.

Wellness supports were another area of significant concern.

Justice Minister Response

Justice Minister John Hogan indicates that the department will now review the report’s findings and recommendations and assist with whatever changes are necessary.

He says the public should be happy to note that Lewis concludes that the RNC does provide effective policing in this province “which is very important.” In the meantime, there are areas for improvement involving workplace issues, on which the department will work with the Constabulary on addressing.