BC RCMP Sign MOU with Westbank First Nation
September 21, 2021 - On September 20, 2021 a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Westbank First Nation (WFN).
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) permits the enforcement of Westbank Law on Westbank Lands and may permit the disclosure of personal information by the RCMP under the Privacy Act for the purpose of carrying out a lawful investigation. The Westbank First Nation Self-Government Act and Self-Government Agreement authorizes the RCMP to render services necessary for enforcement of offences established by Westbank Law where required for the effective and efficient delivery of policing services.
"WFN is proud to be signing this MOU with the RCMP. It is the first of its kind in Canada, says WFN Chief Christopher Derickson. WFN has always had a positive relationship with local RCMP and this MOU is an expression of this relationship and the trust built between the RCMP and WFN. This is another valuable tool to help reduce crime on First Nation’s Land."
On this historic day, the MOU is entered into by Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Commanding Officer of the BC RCMP under the authority of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act, the Privacy Act and the Westbank First Nation Self-Government Agreement and by Chief Christopher Derickson of Westbank First Nation under the authority of the Westbank First Nation Self-Government Agreement and the Privacy Act. Together, both parties sign the agreement, as well Westbank First Nation Councillors, to render policing services effectively immediately.
"This Memorandum of Understanding is a significant step in the partnership between the Westbank First Nation and the BC RCMP in recognizing indigenous law, said Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Commanding Officer for the RCMP in BC. By expanding the services that the RCMP provides, we are able to increase our engagement opportunities which will help build positive relationships and contribute to community safety."
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