Sending police overseas: making a difference in Canada

Media advisory

Wednesday, May 27, 2009 – Ottawa – Over the past 20 years, Canadian police have served in some of the world's most challenging places in the name of peace. But how can that make a difference here in Canada?

On UN Peacekeepers’ Day, this Friday, May 29 at 2 pm, we invite you to find out why deploying police to the world's most fragile countries benefits Canada.

Join us as 26 police officers from 10 police agencies receive the new International Peace Operations commemorative coin in recognition of their service overseas. Hear two recipients speak about their experiences in mission and what it has meant to them, their police service and their communities.

Among the recipients are two members of the first contingent, which deployed to Namibia in October 1989; one of the first police women to participate on a mission, and Assistant Commissioner Graham Muir, who is about to deploy as the first Police Commander of the Canadian contingent in Afghanistan.

After the event, some of our coin recipients will be available to talk to you about their experience overseas. Our police and government partners will also be on hand for interviews or photos.

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Event details

1. International Peace Operations Commemorative Coin Launch and Presentation, Friday, May 29, 2009, 2 pm (UN Peacekeepers’ Day)
2. National Peacekeeping Monument, 424 Sussex Drive, Ottawa  (across from National Gallery, which will be the venue in case of rain)
3. Opportunity for media interviews/photos with participating police officers, International Police Peace Operations Program representatives from the RCMP and police partner agencies, as well as government partners.

For more information: Royal Canadian Mounted Police Media Relations, 613-993-2999