In response to Mayor Lilia Hansen’s recent letter criticizing RCMP over vacancies in the Regional General Investigation Service (GIS), the Minister of Public Safety, Gary Begg, has assured that RCMP resources are not being removed from Fort St. John.
In a letter dated January 6, the mayor wrote that GIS positions have remained vacant for nearly three years. Despite assurances from the RCMP, she expressed the city’s frustration over the lack of results, calling into question the genuineness and effectiveness of the staffing initiatives. Hansen condemning the “deceitful” manner in which the positions were removed from the detachment after being copied on a related email.
“When we challenged the decision and the lack of consultation, we were advised that the same quality service could be provided to the region from Prince George,” said Hansen. “It is absurd to suggest that these positions could provide the same support for our region remotely.”
However, in his reply to be presented before the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) committee February 20th, Minister Begg clarified that the vacancies are complex, with North District GIS historically supporting police service in Fort St. John.
The minister insists there are no plans to move RCMP resources out of Fort St. John. He noted that BC RCMP are actively working to fill the vacancies.
“You may be pleased to know that a candidate has been selected and will be in place on March 1, 2025, to fill the recently vacated FSJ BD GIS Constable position,” told Begg.
Reports received by the ministry from BC RCMP show that at least two of the three GIS positions have been staffed within the last three years, and vacancy rates have shown improvement, according to the minister.
The letter goes on to say that Acting Staff Sergeant Scott Watson has been in contact with Mayor Hansen to discuss her concerns. Watson saying that efforts to re-staff a corporal position are ongoing but have not yet been successful, according to the letter.
The ministry is now planning a meeting with the city, BC RCMP, and surrounding communities to address the concerns.
CJDC-TV reached out to the city of Fort St. John for comment, and will continue to provide updates as they become available.