NationTalk: (Treaty 5, 6, 8 & 10) Prince Albert, Sask. – The Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) is calling for the immediate implementation of the recommendations resulting from a special inquiry into the operations of the Prince Albert Police Service (PAPS). The inquiry, conducted by Rod Knecht & Associates Ltd., has identified critical areas that require urgent improvement within the PAPS.
The inquiry, initiated by the Minister on November 8, 2022, in response to the tragic deaths of 13-month-old Tanner Brass, Saul Laliberte, and two unidentified individuals in October 2021, has led to a comprehensive report containing forty-five recommendations. The complete list of recommendations can be accessed on the Corrections, Police, and Public Safety website.
“The series of in-custody deaths that transpired in 2021 was profoundly tragic and has underscored the necessity for a thorough investigation. Our heartfelt sympathies remain with the families impacted by these devastating incidents, and we stand in solidarity with them in their quest for truth and justice,” stated Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte of the Prince Albert Grand Council.
“Transparency, accountability, and transformative change are paramount to us. We firmly believe that these recommendations provide a crucial roadmap for transformation and they all must be swiftly acted upon to prevent such tragedies from happening again,” said Grand Chief Hardlotte.
Among the recommendations, PAGC calls for Recommendation #28, which proposes the inclusion of the Government of Saskatchewan (GoS) on the board of the police commissioners, to be expanded to also include a representative from the Prince Albert Grand Council. PAGC firmly believes that its inclusion will contribute valuable perspectives, insights, and expertise to the decision-making process regarding police governance and policies, and would enhance community representation on the board.
“We emphasize the importance of inclusive representation within the board, and call upon the Prince Albert Board of Police Commissioners and all relevant parties to recognize the significance of granting the Prince Albert Grand Council a seat on the board. Through our collaborative efforts, we can work towards a future where the PAPS serves and protects all community members with fairness, integrity, and cultural sensitivity,” said Grand Chief Hardlotte.
About Prince Albert Grand Council:
The Prince Albert Grand Council is one of the largest tribal councils in Canada with a membership of over 44,000, representing 12 First Nations and the 28 northern communities in the territories of Treaty 5, 6, 8 & 10. To learn more, visit pagc.sk.ca.
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Media enquiries may be directed to:
Tina Pelletier
Communications Consultant
Prince Albert Grand Council
Cell: 306-941-7120
Email: tpelletier@pagc.net