Millions in funding put toward Manitoba First Nations Police, safety officers

The Manitoba First Nations Police Service (MFNPS) and safety officers are set to receive a total of $163.5 million in funding from the provincial and federal governments, according to sources. However, some First Nation leaders believe the amount is insufficient and are pushing for additional support.

The MFNPS will be allocated $121 million over four years, while the Manitoba First Nations Safety Officer Program will receive $42.5 million to expand its program, making it accessible to any community that desires it. MFNPS Police Chief Jason Colon emphasized that "where someone lives should not determine the level of policing or investigational services they receive."

He added that the expectations placed on the MFNPS are the same as those placed on any other police service in Manitoba, but the service needs the capacity to meet those expectations.

Chief Michael Yellowback of the Manto Sipi Cree Nation shared that his community relies on safety officers to respond to crime and potentially detain suspects until the nearest RCMP detachment can arrive, which can take over 50 kilometers away. The response time from the nearest RCMP station can be as long as three hours during winter due to the officers trekking through winter roads.

Indigenous leaders have been advocating for funding, as safety officers serve as the first line of defense by scanning who and what is entering and leaving the community. Chief Yellowback expressed hope that the funding is a win-win situation for all communities, particularly for First Nation officers who require training and equipment.

Long Plain First Nation Chief David Meeches stated that his community received around $1 million for safety, which is appreciative but still not enough to meet their needs. Meeches called for continued support beyond the current announcement, emphasizing that "we need to go beyond today’s announcement. We need to go beyond and seek continued support."