This issue is part of the ongoing work around identifying “core” policing functions. The OACP has and will continue to work with the Munk School of Global Affairs on exploring the “future of policing” in our Province. The OACP has consistently raised concerns with the Province of Ontario regarding downloading of non-police responsibilities onto our personnel. Fundamentally, police remain the default public service for issues such as mental health responses because other public services are underfunded or unable to provide 24/7 responses.
The OACP will catalog examples of downloading and actively engage with government decision-makers and other stakeholders to ensure our police personnel have the needed resources to meet Ontarians’ service expectations and enhance public trust and confidence in our police organizations.