May 29, 2019
Province Announces Request for Proposals for Independent Police Services Act Review
– – –Review will Support Transparency, Accountability in Policing: Cullen
The Manitoba government is seeking proposals for an independent review of The Police Services Act (PSA), supporting continued transparency and accountability in policing, Justice Minister Cliff Cullen announced today.
“Our police services play a critical role in protecting Manitobans, and positive relationships between agencies and the communities they serve improve safety and security for everyone,” said Cullen. “Civilian oversight ensures policing services reflect the diversity of the province, and improves transparency and accountability in policing.”
The PSA defines the roles and responsibilities of the Manitoba government, the Manitoba Police Commission, the Independent Investigations Unit, municipal and First Nation police boards, municipal councils and police services, and establishes the interrelationship between the various entities. It also sets out the direction for the creation of standards for police services, as well as a mechanism to ensure compliance.
The province is legally required to undertake a comprehensive review of The Police Services Act within five years of the act coming into force. The government committed to launch that review process in its 2018 throne speech.
The review will examine each section of the PSA and its regulations, and will include a thorough cross-jurisdictional analysis, stakeholder interviews and public consultations. The review will also assess whether the act supports professional, transparent and effective delivery of policing services, and provide recommendations to amend or reform the legislation.
The Manitoba government has drafted terms of reference, which focus on civilian oversight, accountability and transparency. The final report is expected in spring of 2020, the minister added.
- 30 -
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED
Backgrounder
Background Information - https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/newslinks/2019/05/BG-Police_Services_Act_Review-JS.pdf