The National Police Federation (NPF) is calling on the provincial government to halt any further investment into the Saskatchewan Marshals Service (SMS).
The NPF represents nearly 20,000 RCMP members across Canada. They’ve submitted a letter to Premier Scott Moe signed by nearly 100 municipalities raising concerns about the SMS.
According to the federation, the SMS has already received $14 million in funding, which they say was received without adequate consultation with the communities and stakeholders.
The police federation also says “The absence of a detailed plan outlining the impacts and costs of creating the SMS is unacceptable.”
They go on to say residents are satisfied with the RCMP.
“Recent polling highlights that 80 per cent of Saskatchewan residents are satisfied with the RCMP’s policing.”
“There is significant preference for investing in RCMP services over the creation of the SMS.”
NPF president and CEO, Brian Sauvé, says he remains concerned about the rush to the Marshals service.
“With police agencies, including the RCMP, now experiencing renewed interest, we are concerned about further investment in the Saskatchewan Marshals Service ahead of full consultation and a strong plan.”
The SMS is a provincial police service designed to focus on provincial priorities and enhance police presence in rural and remote communities.
According to the Saskatchewan Government, the 2024-25 provincial budget allocated $7 million towards the development of the service with an annual budget of $20 million once its operational.
The service is making significant progress towards being operational by the end of 2026 according to a recent update from the provincial government.
Read More: Increased thefts prompt Lloyd RCMP release
Locally owned and community driven, the Lloydminster Meridian Source is the online news source in the Border City. Whether it’s breaking news, features or sports, if you have questions about what’s going on around town, Source it with us!
Since online platforms no longer support the sharing of news, we encourage you to bookmark meridiansource.ca. Whether you’re having a coffee or enjoying a meal, check in any time for the most up-to-date news in Lloydminster.
