Public safety

For some years now, the issue of public security has been at the top of the agenda of the Leaders in Assembly.

Through the creation of a Public Security Advisory the AFNQL has taken on the responsibility to carry out necessary follow-up work on the direction given by the Chiefs in Assembly.

Public security encompasses policing, justice, emergency preparedness and response including pandemic planning, (in conjunction with other agencies and individuals) and several miscellaneous files.

As part of a holistic approach to the social, economic and political well being of our communities, policing is a key element. Not to be looked upon strictly as law enforcers, we strive to have our police officers act as role models and educators, and to contribute positively to our communities.

As such, proper agreements must be made with both the Provincial and Federal governments. Agreements must respect the authority of First Nations governments’ ability to administer their own policing service. Proper financing being essential, this allows communities to hire and maintain an adequate amount of officers, provide proper facilities, equipment and training.

In many cases, the unfortunate truth is that there is still a lot of work to be done to achieve our goals.

Each community is responsible for its own policing service, it negotiations, and its administrative structures. The AFNQL primary role is to act as an advocate as directed by the Chiefs in Assembly.

The AFNQL public security advisory maintains a network with First Nation political organizations, First Nation police organizations, the RCMP, SQ and both the Federal and Provincial government. Due to the sensitive nature of public security issues the line between politics and law enforcement is not always clear, it has become a key element of the AFNQL public security office.

The Public security office assesses various governmental policies, programs and laws that will have a universal impact and provide information and/or recommendations to the Chiefs in Assembly.

Examples of some current active files include: