Canada has filed a motion to stay a proposed class action brought by RCMP members who have been diagnosed with or suffered from an operational stress injury. Canada is asking that the court stay the proposed class action on legal principle because it overlaps with two other certified class actions. Because of this overlap, the motion will not prevent class members from having their claims heard in other certified class actions.
The RCMP is committed to ensuring that its members receive the mental health supports they need in order to continue safely serving the public.
Work-related stress and mental illness are important issues that the RCMP takes very seriously. We're committed to enhancing the health, safety and resiliency of our employees. We're taking steps to mitigate the impacts of psychological risks, fostering a supportive culture for those directly and indirectly affected by psychological health problems, and assisting those with psychological health issues in regaining their optimal health and remaining valued RCMP employees.
As the RCMP continues to be the modern, inclusive and healthy organization that our employees and all residents of Canada expect of us, we're continuously finding ways to take better care of our employees, treating all those we serve with dignity and respect, and carrying out our police work in ways that builds trust and confidence.
We've implemented several programs, supports and services to support employee mental health and well being including the Employee and Family Resource Guide, Road to Mental Readiness (R2MR) training, promoting Health Canada's Employee Assistance Services (EAS), creating the Support for Operational Stress Injury program, and launching the National Reintegration Program to name a few. We're also participating in a 10-year longitudinal research study of cadets (while in training and for the first five years of their careers) to investigate the effects that policing has on the mental health of RCMP officers. This study will give the RCMP much required insight on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and operational stress injuries.
All of these efforts reflect our continued dedication to cultivating a safe and healthy workplace. We're confident the steps we're taking will have significant results for our employees and the RCMP.
Mike Duheme
Commissioner