Policing Structure Review Continues to Move Forward.
A comprehensive review of the policing structure in Nova Scotia continues to move forward. Attorney General and Justice Minister Brad Johns announced the successful consultant, engagement advisory committee members and a new co-chair today, March 13.
“Police officers work in every corner of Nova Scotia, keeping our communities safe. This comprehensive review of policing will help ensure our policing services are structured in a way that is efficient, effective and provide the best service to our communities,” said Minister Johns. “I’d like to thank the police review engagement advisory committee for stepping up and helping to guide this work. Local, diverse voices are crucial to ensuring Nova Scotians are engaged as this review progresses.”
Deloitte has been named the external consultant to conduct the comprehensive technical review, through a request for proposals process. This will involve broad public engagement and Deloitte will work closely with the engagement advisory committee to inform this work.
The committee includes people from the provincial government, police agencies, subject matter experts and equity-deserving groups, including those from faith-based communities, gender-based violence organizations, and newcomers.
It is co-chaired by Lindell Smith of Halifax, who has stepped into the role, and Hayley Crichton with the Department of Justice.
The review, which will potentially make recommendations for change, is expected to be completed by April 2025.
Quick Facts:
- committee members were selected from nominations put forward by groups, organizations and agencies serving communities across the province
- there are currently 11 police agencies in Nova Scotia – 10 municipal police agencies and the RCMP serving as the provincial police agency – with almost 2,000 police officer positions
- the final report of the Mass Casualty Commission recommended a multi-sectoral council be established to review the structure of policing in Nova Scotia and make recommendations that can be implemented before the 2032 expiration of the Provincial Police Services Agreement (Recommendation P.67)
Additional Resources:
News release – Province to Conduct Comprehensive Policing Review: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2023/09/29/province-conduct-comprehensive-policing-review
Source : Provincial Release
