Public safety minister looking to float idea of civilian oversight with RCMP commissioner
The public safety minister wants to have a conversation with the new RCMP commissioner about the possibility of implementing a civilian board of management for the force.
Ralph Goodale told The House that civilian oversight should "absolutely" be in the game plan when considering changes to the RCMP.
However, it's not a new idea. It was the central recommendation of a 2007 report from a task force on governance and cultural change in the organization.
Figuring out the best path forward will just be one of the challenges awaiting Brenda Lucki, RCMP commissioner designate.
The RCMP has been plagued with sexual assault, harassment and discrimination allegations in recent years.
"The biggest challenge I think is going to be addressing the issue of morale and team spirit and restoring that enthusiasm among members of the force," Goodale said.
One of the steps will be continuing to work to change the culture in the force.
"The force is in the process of culture change," he added. "The bad behaviour became pretty deep rooted."