Members will include police, First Voice, and other Indigenous groups across the province.
The Royal Newfoundland Labrador Constabulary and St. John’s-based urban Indigenous coalition First Voice, are forming an Indigenous Advisory Committee. Members will include police, First Voice, and other Indigenous groups across the province. The committee will seek to address historical and current harms through an open and honest approach guided by respect and understanding. Cst James Cadigan says police will be guided on how to best advance truth and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. He says the process has started and it’s about open dialogue, respect, and education.
Meanwhile, Justin Campbell of First Voice, says a report on police oversight in the province from October, 2022, contained 26 recommendations. He says they wanted a stronger civilian led oversight of police services. Campbell also wonders why Justice Minister John Hogan still hasn’t commented on the 2022 report. The RNC and First Voice recognize that building mutual trust and understanding between the police service and Indigenous Peoples in Newfoundland and Labrador will take some time.