A new RCMP commissioner has been selected following a series of interviews with a committee, including Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief, Tammy Cook-Searson.
Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced that Brenda Lucki will serve as the new commissioner when he visited RCMP Depot in Regina on Friday.
Cook-Searson was part of the group that selected and interviewed candidates and ultimately made a shortlist that was then provided to the public safety minister.
“There were many qualified candidates, both from within and outside the RCMP, and at the end of the day, the committee recommended a shortlist to the minister, (Public Safety) Minister Ralph Goodale — of five candidates,” said Cook-Searson. “From there, the minister then provided the committee’s advice to the prime minister for the final decision.”
When the chief was appointed to the committee back in November, she spoke about the importance of promoting good relationships between RCMP and Indigenous communities.
“There has been much work that has been done, but there is a lot of work to be done in terms of communications and setting up relationships within Indigenous communities,” said Cook-Searson.
Cook-Searson was confident that Lucki will be able to address issues, such as harassment and discrimination, which have been plaguing the RCMP.
“We wish her all the best,” said Cook-Searson. “I think it’s a great choice that they made.”
Other members of the committee included deputy ministers of public safety and the status of women.
The appointment of Lucki is effective April 16.
(PHOTO: Chief Tammy Cook-Searson during her swearing-in ceremony at the most recent LLRIB election. File Photo.)