N.S. government mulling larger role for RCMP as it restructures policing

The Nova Scotia government has announced significant changes aimed at improving policing in the province, following a review that was launched in September 2023. Justice Minister Becky Druhan unveiled six key changes that are set to modernize and restructure policing services in Nova Scotia.

One of the major changes includes considering a larger role for the RCMP in the province’s policing landscape. Druhan emphasized that municipalities will have the option to retain their local police forces as long as they meet provincial standards. However, if a local police force fails to meet these standards, municipalities will be required to switch to the RCMP.

In addition to this, the government plans to introduce a new billing system for municipal police services. This move aims to streamline the financial processes involved in funding police services across Nova Scotia. Furthermore, the province will establish a single police records database to replace the current three systems in place. This centralized database is expected to enhance efficiency and information sharing among law enforcement agencies.

Another significant change outlined by Minister Druhan is the creation of community safety boards. These boards will play a crucial role in engaging with local communities, addressing specific safety concerns, and fostering collaboration between residents and law enforcement agencies.

Moreover, the government plans to ramp up recruitment efforts to bring in more officers and allocate additional resources to support police operations in the field. These measures are designed to bolster the capacity and effectiveness of policing services in Nova Scotia.

The review that led to these changes was initiated in the aftermath of the tragic shooting rampage in central and northern Nova Scotia in April 2020, where 22 individuals lost their lives. The government’s commitment to enhancing policing services underscores the importance of ensuring public safety and security across the province.

Overall, these changes represent a significant step towards modernizing and improving policing in Nova Scotia. By implementing these reforms, the government aims to build a more responsive, efficient, and community-oriented policing system that effectively meets the needs of residents and enhances public safety.