March 24, 2010
Province Provides Support for Police Officers, Prosecutors
– – –Budget also Commits Funds to get Winnipeg Police Helicopter off the Ground, Cadets on the Streets
The Province of Manitoba will provide new, ongoing, incremental funding to support operations of the Winnipeg Police Service beginning with Budget 2010, Attorney General Andrew Swan officially announced today.
“Despite tough economic times, we continue to work with the City of Winnipeg and the Winnipeg Police Service to address the crime-fighting priorities they have identified,” said Swan. “Budget 2010 will provide funding for 13 police officers, will help get the Winnipeg Police Service’s Aerial Support Unit off the ground and will support the establishment of a new police cadet program.”
Budget 2010 provides funding for 10 new police officers positions for the Winnipeg Police Service. More resources will also be allocated for prosecutions, adding nine new prosecutors, for a total increase of 48 since 1999.
Additional support includes:
· $1.3 million in operating funds including the provision of three additional police officers for the Aerial Support Unit; and
· joint funding by the province and the city for 30 police cadets this upcoming year, increasing to 50 cadets in 2011-12.
“Improving public safety remains a top priority for the City of Winnipeg and these initiatives will assist the men and women of the Winnipeg Police Service as they work everyday to make our city a safer place,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “I want to thank the province for their contribution in making these initiatives possible.”
“A police helicopter and the cadet program are new tools for fighting crime and enhancing relationships with the community. I am very pleased that a funding partnership between the province and City of Winnipeg is making these programs possible,” said Winnipeg Police Chief Keith McCaskill.
The Aerial Support Unit was identified as an important tool for the Winnipeg Police Service to enhance public safety by the chief and a program review has been recommended after three years to examine its effectiveness.
The police cadet program is intended to strengthen the services provided to the community and to assist police officers in their efforts to ensure public safety.
“Along with providing practical assistance to officers, we hope the support for the police cadet program will encourage under-represented groups, including Aboriginal people and newcomers, to consider policing and policing-related careers,” said Swan.
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