Among the Canadian provinces, one issue has been stitched onto the political fabric with increasing urgency. Provinces have started to demand more than merely a national police force policing their borders in recent years as they awaken from their slumber.
The calls for something specific, regional, and unmistakably provincial have become increasingly common. Following suit, Saskatchewan has now begun laying the foundation for a separate provincial police force.
The demand for local law enforcement services isn’t driven by an overwhelming desire for provincial uniforms with a little more style. Accountability, attentiveness, and, yes, a tad of cultural sensitivity are key components. In essence, the provinces have a simple call: RCMP must have no authority over provincial affairs.
Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister has a soft spot for the RCMP, it seems. He’s been flaunting his federal force fondness, advocating for the national police force’s continued dominion over provincial territories.
There have also been instances where Trudeau has been seen taking a few liberties in deploying the federal police force to further personal interests.
So, several federal lawmakers have pointed the finger at the RCMP’s conduct on numerous occasions. Now, don’t suppose that only a few politicians in Ottawa are involved in criticizing RCMP.
Saskatchewan and Alberta each have their own issues with the RCMP. The RCMP has frequently been charged by these provinces with interfering with their internal affairs without their consent and thus making things worse.
Saskatchewan Makes It Official
Now, Scott Moe, the premier of Saskatchewan, is pushing for change and has made a bold declaration. Saskatchewan’s RCMP-free future will become a reality by 2026. Moe declares, “Out with the RCMP and in with our own police force!”
Reportedly, the government has given the go-ahead for the operation of their new police force, and the marshals begin receiving orders.
Last Monday, Premier Moe signed an official order to close the deal. The Police Act, of 1990 was modified to create the structure for this new marshal’s service. It will start operating in 2026 and cost around $20 million a year.
In contrast to the RCMP, the minister of security will be in charge of Saskatchewan’s provincial police, and the marshal service will be relying on ministry representatives for assistance.
Read More: In the first episode we saw how Alberta drove out RCMP, here’s the latest episode
A Big Blow to RCMP
The decision by Scott Moe is being scrutinized by Justin Trudeau and his NDP allies, led by Jagmeet Singh as this decision comes as a big blow for RCMP. NDP leader Nicole Sarauer who is also the opposition spokesman for public safety, law enforcement, and corrections in Saskatchewan, isn’t exactly jumping for joy.
“It’s concerning,” she says “The deputy minister acting as the board? That’s like serving poutine without cheese curds – it just ain’t right.” She’s worried that politicians might start dictating police moves, and she’s not alone.
Liberal leaders are joining the chorus, singing a tune of traditional Canadian policing principles being muddled.
While Trudeau might be somewhere in Ottawa wondering where his crown of approval went, Saskatchewan has taken a stand. This is about more than just police uniforms; it’s about the province showing its independence, its sovereignty.
The once-distant lands of Alberta and Saskatchewan are waving their provincial flags high, introducing legislation to reclaim what they see as their rightful turf from federal meddling.
And as the prairies rumble with this newfound assertiveness, who’s to say that Alberta, New Brunswick, and even British Columbia won’t soon be following suit?
Read More: Saskatchewan is going all-out against the RCMP
This provincial theatrics of sovereignty is evolving into a full-fledged provincial drama, with each act conveying the message that they are no longer content with federal meddling. It is no longer a solitary performance.
And how it all began? with Trudeau, the master of political gaffes, whose dubious behavior set off a domino reaction that even the most adept RCMP riders were powerless to halt. The great federal-provincial divide is coming and it is probably going to be an irreversible phenomenon.
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