Brenda Lucki named as Canada's first permanent female RCMP commissioner
Ottawa, May 12 (IBNS): Brenda Lucki has been named as Canada's first permanent female RCMP's commissioner by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale at a ceremony in Regina, Manitoba, at the RCMP's training depot, media reports said.
"Lucki has made it her mission to serve the public. She's known for being a hard worker, a dedicated officer and as someone who is constantly looking for ways to improve the status quo," Trudeau was reported to say, adding Lucki is "absolutely the best person for the job, who just happens to be a woman."
Lucki, a 32-year veteran of the force, was recipient of United National Force Commander's commendation for bravery, two UN protection forces medals and the Canadian peacekeeping service medal.
She had earlier served as the commanding officer of the RCMP's training academy in Saskatchewan, at divisions in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan, worked with United Nations in the former Yugoslavia and had trained police units for the UN Civilian Police Mission in Haiti.
She would be replacing for Bob Paulson, who retired in June 2017.
The candidates for the RCMP's commissioner post were screened for "Indigenous culture and a sensitivity to the issues relevant to the diversity of the Canadian population." as mentioned in the job posting.
Her selection was made by a committee of six woman and three men led by Frank McKenna, the former premier of New Brunswick who also served as Canada's ambassador to the United States.
Luki had worked with Indigenous groups, including her induction into the Order of Merit of the Police Forces for her efforts to improve relations with First Nations in northern Manitoba
Trudeu reportedly considered Luki will play an important role in promoting reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, advancing gender equality, addressing workplace harassment and protecting the civil liberties of Canadians.
Friday's appointment coincided with the time when the force's relations with Indigenous communities are strained.
Last month's acquittal of Saskatchewan farmer Gerald Stanley in the shooting death of First Nations man Colten Boushie had aroused accusations of bias by police and the justice system against Indigenous people .
"I plan to challenge assumptions, seek explanations and better understand the reasons how we operate. This means that no stone will be left unturned. And if what we find works, then we carry on until we unearth the issues that need addressing," Luki was reported to state.
(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)
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