Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Morris issued the following statement to mark the beginning of Police Week, May 15-21, 2016:

“For nearly half a century, Police Week has provided Canadians with annual opportunities to connect with their local police agencies and learn about the range of services they deliver.

“Beyond providing families with a chance to check out different vehicles and equipment that police use to further public safety, Police Week lets people get to know the women and men behind the badge. This year, police agencies are also using it to highlight important issues like family violence. As our government continues its multi-year Violence Free BC strategy, police are critical, front-line partners in preventing and eliminating the violence that affects too many women and children throughout our province.

“Of course, opportunities to interact with police officers can also help to influence the career choices our young people make, adding to the value of Police Week. Positive interaction with officers early in my life contributed to my decision to join the RCMP for what would become a 32-year career in the force – decades that I look back on with fondness and pride.

“I encourage British Columbians to participate in the open houses and other events that local detachments and departments are hosting over the next few days, to meet officers, learn about the important work that they and various support staff perform, and perhaps consider the career opportunities that policing affords.”