Debates of May 11, 2007 (day 5)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to draw Members’ attention to the RCMP change of command ceremony that will take place later today in the Great Hall.

Chief Superintendent Tom Middleton will be appointed as the 34th commanding officer of the RCMP “G” Division. He continues the excellent work of his predecessor, outgoing Commanding Officer Pat McCloskey. Chief Superintendent Middleton is a 30-year veteran of the RCMP and will provide leadership to officers across the NWT. He will have a critical role in strengthening RCMP relations with communities, government agencies and institutions as well as non-government organizations.

Our communities are served by about 200 regular and civilian RCMP members. They work in the hardest of conditions to respond to crimes, protect public security and prevent criminal activity. The work can range from community patrols to disrupting the operations of organized crime gangs. I know that everyone in this House has the greatest respect for the work these officers do.

Please join me today for the change of command ceremony at 2:00 p.m. in the Great Hall. As Minister of Justice, I would like to welcome Superintendent Middleton to the Territories. I would also like to thank Pat McCloskey and Superintendent Rick Roy for their leadership over the past few years.

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Thank you. We look forward, Mr. Speaker, to working with Superintendent Middleton to address the continuing policing and security needs of all communities. Thank you.

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