The province’s Justice Minister says they are looking at potential changes the Newfoundland and Labrador’s police governance structure.
That comes off the back of the Canadian Association of Police Governance’s annual conference held in the capital city last week.
John Hogan states that in the last budget $1 million was allocated to create a 10 person policing and crime prevention unit within government to look at how policing is best delivered.
He says they are looking at how to provide oversight and monitor contracts with the RCMP, researching and developing legislation—such as reviewing the 30-year-old RNC, and working with Indigenous groups to ensure there are appropriate services in place.
Former RNC Chief Joe Boland
Meanwhile, Premier Andrew Furey responded to questions over comments made by former RNC Chief Joe Boland over difficulties dealing with politicians and transparency within the force.
Furey says he was disappointed to hear the former police chiefs comments and says government has no role in directing the police force to do anything.
He says he understands Boland says he felt forced out and denies any action by government to do so. He says he’s disappointed Boland feels that way, but celebrates and thanks him for his 30 years serving the people of the province.
