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Decentralized Democracy

Senate Bill

Bill S-271

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
October 04, 2023
An Act to amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act
  • This bill amends the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act to include the prevention of offences against First Nation laws and the execution of warrants that may be lawfully performed by peace officers under First Nation laws. The duties of RCMP members who are peace officers will now cover these areas of responsibility. The bill defines First Nation laws as including bylaws made under the Indian Act, laws enacted by a council or government authorized to act on behalf of a First Nation under a self-government agreement, and First Nation laws as defined in the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management Act.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act currently only authorizes members who are peace officers to enforce federal and provincial laws, leaving a gap in law enforcement for First Nation laws. Allowing First Nation laws to be included in the duties of members who are peace officers would help to address this gap and ensure the safety and security of Indigenous communities. It would also improve the relationship between First Nations and law enforcement, as well as promote the recognition and respect for the sovereign jurisdiction of First Nation governance. This amendment aligns with the principles of reconciliation and self-determination, as it empowers First Nations to govern and enforce their own laws.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • A steelman argument opposing this bill could be that it may create confusion and uncertainty as to which laws peace officers are meant to enforce and uphold. By expanding their duties to include First Nation laws, there may be conflicts between federal, provincial, and First Nation laws that could lead to unnecessary confrontations. This may also lead to inadvertently enforcing outdated or discriminatory laws that are still present in certain First Nations communities. Additionally, it may impose an additional burden on the already limited resources of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, potentially affecting their ability to enforce other laws and protect communities. A better solution may be to work towards greater collaboration and cooperation between the existing institutions and involve First Nation communities in the process of creating and enforcing laws.
Senate Second Reading
  • June 22, 2023, noon
  • In Progress
  • Read
Senate First Reading
  • June 22, 2023, noon
  • Passed