Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has released the following statement in recognition of National Police Week, May 11-17, 2025:

“Every day, thousands of police officers in British Columbia answer the call to serve with courage, compassion and professionalism. Whether responding to emergencies, supporting victims or building trust in local neighbourhoods, police officers play a critical role in upholding public safety and fostering community connections.

“National Police Week is a time to honour the dedicated women and men in uniform who work tirelessly to protect our communities. It serves as a reminder of the risks officers face in the line of duty and gives us an opportunity to reflect on the evolving and essential role of law enforcement.

“Policing in our province continues to be more complex with the impacts of the toxic-drug crisis, homelessness and mental-health struggles experienced by some in our communities. The recent tragic events that happened after the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver is a heartbreaking reminder of these challenges and the difficult role that police and first responders play when they jump to action so quickly.

“Our government remains committed to ensuring police officers have the resources, training and supports they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. We’re increasing police academy training seats by 50% so more municipal police officers can be trained faster, and we’re continuing to hire more BC RCMP members through our historic investment of $230 million to ensure rural communities and specialized units have the officers they need. Additionally, every year $100 million is invested to bolster provincial firearm forensic capabilities, strengthen gang enforcement and suppression initiatives, and support community-based prevention and intervention programs.

“Our work doesn’t stop there. We’re making meaningful investments into mental-health and addiction supports to better equip officers responding to these complex situations. The Province has expanded Mobile Integrated Crisis Response Teams to nine more communities. These teams partner police officers with mental-health professionals to help safely and effectively de-escalate mental-health-related calls.

“As we reflect on this year’s theme, Committed to Serve Together, I am deeply grateful for the strong partnerships we share with law enforcement agencies throughout the Province. Together, we continue to work collaboratively toward our shared goal of building safer, more resilient communities.

“To all police officers serving in British Columbia, thank you for your service, your sacrifice, your bravery and your commitment to the people of our province. This week, and every week, we stand with you.”

Learn More:

To find out how the province is keeping communities safe and strong, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/safer-communities/