(Ottawa) The union representing members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has asked the federal government for $24 million per year to increase the training allowance for RCMP cadets in order to attract the best recruits.
The RCMP must adequately pay cadets while they undergo training to remain competitive with other forces, says the National Police Federation. She hopes to see increased funding in the federal budget expected next spring.
The Federation notes that cadets are not considered RCMP employees until they have completed their 26-week training at the Regina Depot Division, and are therefore not covered by a collective agreement .
During this period, cadets receive a stipend of $525 per week and the RCMP covers the cost of accommodation, meals, uniforms, training, insurance and limited travel.
The Federation says that since 2008, the $525 allowance has not changed or been adjusted to match inflation, meaning cadets earn less than minimum wage workers in most countries. provinces.
The RCMP said it welcomes the federation’s proposal to increase compensation. Commissioner Michael Duheme and the Federation “are continuing discussions to examine options,” the police force said in a statement.
“We are looking for ways to ensure cadets receive competitive and meaningful compensation while training at (Division) Depot. »
Recruits who undergo training in most provincial and municipal police services are employees from their first day of training, specifies the Federation in an information document on the issue.
“The current allocation does not take into account the needs of RCMP cadets who have financial responsibilities and obligations, such as providing for their families, paying their mortgage and student loans,” the document reads.
“Being at (Division) Depot is demanding both mentally and physically: cadets should not have to bear an additional financial burden while they undertake their training. »
The Federation does not represent all cadets, only those who graduate and enlist in the force, emphasized its president, Brian Sauvé. Thus, the union cannot officially negotiate on behalf of the cadets.
“We must therefore do it outside of negotiations, through our lobbying efforts, through our federal budget proposals and others,” said Mr. Sauvé.
He said the Federation had spoken to several MPs and senators about the proposal and “there was great cross-party support for this proposal”.