Solicitor General Shirley Bond offered the following statement as Canada observes Police and Peace Officers' National Memorial Day on Sunday, Sept. 25:

"Police and peace officers face daily what few of us contemplate as we head to work: the possibility that they won't return home.

"This remains a tragic reality despite the extensive training officers receive, the protective equipment at their disposal, their well-deserved faith in each other, and the support from dispatchers and information-sharing systems to make what are often split-second decisions.

"Too often, we are tragically reminded of the ultimate risk they face. Over the years in British Columbia, 106 officers have fallen in the line of duty. Although no officers have died in B.C. this year, we mourn with all Canadians for the loss of four officers across Canada over the past year.

"Despite the risk, police and peace officers remain committed to their work - and to their comrades, known and unknown. It is incredibly moving when we see officers from departments across North America converge to honour the passing of their own.

"As we mark Police and Peace Officers' National Memorial Day, we honour the bravery of all officers, in B.C. and across Canada, including those who have paid the ultimate price while protecting us. I also want to thank their families and friends for supporting them, in their lives and in the pursuit of their incredibly important and selfless work."

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
250 356-6961