Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino says search for next RCMP commissioner will begin

RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki Official photo

FEDERAL Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino said in a tweet on Wednesday that “the government will now begin the process of appointing the next Commissioner of the RCMP,” following Brenda Lucki’s announcement that she is retiring as the RCMP commissioner.

“We will be searching for an exceptional new leader who will keep our communities safe while advancing the reforms necessary to maintain the confidence of all Canadians,” he added.

Mendicino said: “I want to thank Commissioner Lucki for her years of service to the RCMP. From training new recruits at Depot to becoming the Mounties’ first woman Commissioner, she has dedicated her life to keeping Canadians safe.

“Commissioner Lucki has led the Force for nearly five years, navigating through the pandemic and beyond. I want to thank her for her partnership and dedication.”

In a statement released by the RCMP, Lucki said: “Today I announced that I have made a personal decision to retire. This was not an easy decision as I love the RCMP and have loved being the 24th Commissioner. I am so incredibly proud to have had the opportunity to lead this historic organization and witness first hand the tremendous work being done each and every day by all employees from coast to coast to coast and internationally.

“Since my swearing-in on April 16, 2018, we’ve made some great progress to meet the expectations of Canadians, our communities and our contract partners and I know that will continue after my last day on March 17, 2023. As Commissioner, I was asked to modernize and address the RCMP‘s internal challenges. This was a significant mandate and with the support of my senior executive team and the commitment of all RCMP employees, we’ve accomplished a lot.

“I’m so proud of the steps we’ve taken to modernize – to increase accountability, address systemic racism, ensure a safe and equitable workplace and advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Our progress can be found on our website.

“I leave knowing I did my best and take comfort that the RCMP is well placed to shine in its 150th year.”