Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
RETIREMENT RECEPTION FOR POLICE CHIEF DANNY SMYTH
Government House
Thursday, September 5, 2024
(please check against delivery)
Friends and fellow Manitobans, it’s a pleasure to join you today in paying tribute to a man who has dedicated his career to the city and province we love.
As Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, I first acknowledge that we are gathered on Treaty 1 territory and that Manitoba is located on the treaty territories and ancestral lands of the Anishinaabe, Anishininew (ANISH-IN-INEW), Cree, Dakota, Dene and Nehetho (NE-HET-HO) Nation; that Manitoba is located on the homeland of the Red River Métis; and that northern Manitoba includes lands that were and are the ancestral lands of the Inuit.
As Manitobans, we respect the spirit and intent of treaties and treaty making and remain committed to working in partnership with First Nations, Metis and Inuit people in the spirit of truth, reconciliation and collaboration.
One of the privileges of my current position is having the opportunity to meet Manitobans who dedicate their time and talent and resources to their community.
I am fortunate to get to know men and women who build and support the services and institutions we rely on for our health, safety and prosperity.
It’s always an inspiring day when I’m able to give thanks, on behalf of Manitobans, for long-time service, problem-solving and leadership.
Today, we’re gathered to salute Chief Danny Smyth for his 38 years of dedication as a member of the Winnipeg Police Service – including seven years in the demanding role of Chief of Police.
There are many professions that can be described as demanding: many where the stakes are high, where public scrutiny comes with the position, where urgent action is regularly required. But very few, I would imagine, compare to that of chief of police in a major city.
It takes a dedicated individual to take on such a challenge – or indeed the other highly demanding positions Danny held before reaching the top job.
But dedication clearly runs in the Smyth family. Danny’s 38 years of service – starting in 1986 – match the 38 years his father Stan spent with the Winnipeg police.
In this year when the city of Winnipeg is celebrating 150 years since its incorporation we have reached a total of 76 years of father and son Smyth service to this community.
Winnipeg is fortunate to have had a homegrown leader commit himself day after day and year after year to the safety of this city and the effectiveness of the Winnipeg Police Service.
Danny, as you enjoy a well-earned retirement, I hope the years to come are sweetened by the knowledge that you’ve made a positive difference in the careers and lives of both your former colleagues and in the lives of countless people in this city.
Congratulations on a career well spent, Danny. We wish you “bonne chance” in the next chapter.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich. Shalom
