Over this past weekend, youth from throughout Newfoundland and Labrador travelled to RCMP Headquarters in St. John's to meet with Assistant Commissioner Ches Parsons, Commanding Officer of RCMP NL. It was the first meeting of the newly formed RCMP NL Youth Advisory Committee, comprised of ten youth between the ages of 13-17, who come from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and areas throughout the province.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the members of our Youth Advisory Committee and thank them for their interest in advising me and the RCMP on issues that impact them and their peers," said Assistant Commissioner Parsons. "Their valuable input will inform our policing priorities and strategies as they pertain to youth in our province."
Discussions held focused on bullying, vaping, drug and alcohol use, mental health issues and use of recreational vehicles.
The application process for the committee started in October of 2019 with notices distributed to schools throughout the province, in addition to notifications on RCMP NL social media platforms. Approximately thirty applications were received. Ten applicants were selected for the RCMP NL Youth Advisory Committee:
- Kendra Burridge, Pasadena
- Julia Keefe, Bay Roberts
- Reanna George, Milltown
- Alexis McPherson, West Bay Center
- Mason House, Belburns
- Paige Nochasak, Happy Valley Goose Bay
- Hilary Humphries, Gander
- Ethan Peckham, Carbonear
- Lily Jacobs, Springdale
- Morgan Whelan, Colliers
The Youth Advisory Committee will meet annually with the Commanding Officer.