New RCMP office will increase police availability for Stoney Nakoda First Nation
'We are still rebuilding relationships from the past,' says police officer
The Stoney Nakoda First Nation west of Calgary is getting an RCMP satellite office, which officers say will help with police involvement in the community.
Const. Jennifer Brewer is a member of the Community Tripartite Policing Agreement, which sees officers devote 100 per cent of their working hours to the needs of the First Nations.
For years, Cochrane RCMP have been responding to calls on the reserve and doing routine patrols.
"We drive around the community but we are not very visible like we should," said Brewer.
She explained that the closest RCMP detachments for people living on the Stoney Reserve are in Cochrane and Canmore — both about half an hour away.
"Now with the office opening, we are able to spend more time within the community. We don't have to worry about the travel time," said Brewer.
She explained this will help officers build positive relationships and grow reconciliation in the community.
"We are going to be around for people who want to talk," said Brewer. "We are still rebuilding relationships from the past. Not everyone had positive experiences."
At the new office, Brewer explained, the residents will be able to report and give statements, as well as meet with an advocate from the Victim Services Indigenous Outreach program.
"It was a great opportunity to work with the nation to get this space and now just being here for the nation when they need us," she said.
The RCMP Morley Community Policing Office is located just off the Trans-Canada Highway, across from the Chiniki Village complex.
The Cochrane RCMP will host the grand opening of the new facility on Aug. 29 at 11 a.m. with a blessing ceremony and barbecue to follow.