Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
WINNIPEG POLICE GRADUATION
RBC Convention Centre
Friday, October 20, 2023, 1:00 p.m.
(please check against delivery)
Members and friends of the Winnipeg Police Service, welcome to this celebration of great beginnings.
As Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, it is my pleasure to join you here in the heart of Treaty One land and the heartland of the Red River Metis.
Today, we are celebrating a group of new recruits who are launching careers protecting and serving the people of a diverse city – the capital of a province that is home to the Anishinaabe, Cree, Dakota, Dene, Inuit and Metis peoples.
Members of recruit class 168 will be part of a great societal commitment to listen and learn, to advance understanding, and to work for opportunities, dignity and healing for all.
As Lieutenant Governor – and in earlier years as school board trustee – I’ve had the opportunity to attend many graduations – from kindergarten up to graduate and professional programs.
Certain sentiments are universal at such events. Graduates are proud of their accomplishments. They are relieved to have their tests and exercises over. And they are looking forward to the new challenges and experiences that await them.
I can’t say, however, that many other groups of graduates I’ve met have had an experience quite like yours.
- Exacting physical tests and psychological assessments
- classroom learning on law
- investigative techniques and the social factors of crime
- hands-on training with firearms and behind the wheel of a police car
These make for a demanding learning experience for each participant.
And the commitment you are making as members of the police service is also unique.
The unpredictable environments you go out into; the complex social, economic and psychological factors that affect the work you’ll do; the rising expectations society places on police – these will require all your experience, judgement and knowledge. And they will require a commitment to continuous learning throughout your career.
Your fellow Winnipeggers and Manitobans are counting on you. And I’m confident that the discipline and focus that have brought you this far will allow you to meet and exceed those expectations.
May your career bring you satisfaction and the pride of an important job done well. Thank you to all the instructors and mentors, and also your family and friends who have and will continue to support you.
And finally, to the graduates of Winnipeg Police Service class 168, thank you for answering the call to serve.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich.
