Statement from Commissioner Duheme on the 150th anniversary of the RCMP

May 23, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

Statement

Today, the RCMP marks its 150th anniversary - a major milestone in our organization's history. For 150 years, our employees have worked together, and with partners across Canada and internationally, with one common goal: to keep our communities safe.

It's a significant moment that calls on us to reflect on who we are, where we've come from, and where we're going based on 150 years of lessons learned. In marking this anniversary, we must acknowledge that the RCMP has played a role in some of Canada's most difficult and dark moments. There's no questioning that we've faced our fair share of challenges.

Rest assured that work is well underway to continue our modernization and reconciliation efforts, and to ensure the organization reflects the diversity of the communities we proudly serve. Every day, Canadians from coast to coast to coast rely on us to keep them safe. It's critical that we continue to foster their trust and confidence in us by acting with integrity, showing respect, and serving with excellence.

To the over 30,000 RCMP employees across Canada and abroad, thank you for your continued dedication and professionalism. From police officers to civilian members and public service employees, you're all part of a team that is making a valuable contribution. You play an integral part of the communities you serve, you lead by example and are setting the standard for future recruits.

The work certainly can be challenging. The unknowns when you start a shift, the long hours, the reality of moving to new communities - the day-to-day life of policing can be hard on you and your loved ones. It's important to remember, especially through the challenging times, that this job affords us the duty and the ability to help others and change lives. It's an incredible privilege that we should never take for granted.

It's an honour to lead the RCMP at such a pivotal moment in our history. I look forward to demonstrating to Canadians what this organization can accomplish in the months and years ahead.

Mike Duheme
Commissioner

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