In a landmark agreement, the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS) has become the first First Nations police service to be officially recognized under Ontario’s Community Safety and Policing Act (CSPA). This historic signing ceremony, held today at Queen’s Park, was accompanied by the announcement of a $514 million investment to bolster NAPS’ capacity to serve 34 First Nations communities in Northern Ontario.
The funding will enable NAPS to double its current roster of officers, growing from 260 to over 500, while maintaining culturally appropriate policing standards. The initiative aims to address long-standing gaps in safety and resources for some of the province’s most remote communities.
“This is a historic day for policing in Ontario,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “We are proud to work alongside First Nations partners to modernize and strengthen the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, ensuring safe and effective policing for these communities.”
NAPS Chief of Police Terry Armstrong reflected on the decades of challenges faced by the service and expressed optimism about the future. “This new legislation represents a guarantee of safety backed by the rule of law, with more officers, better infrastructure, and improved conditions,” he said.
Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation emphasized the importance of equitable policing standards, noting, “Thanks to the CSPA, First Nations policed by NAPS will now have access to the same standards and guaranteed funding that the rest of Canada takes for granted. This is what our communities deserve.”
The agreement is the result of extensive collaboration between the Ontario government, the Nishnawbe Aski Nation, and the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service Board. It ensures NAPS will continue providing culturally relevant services while meeting the provincial framework’s standards over the coming years.
“This legislation is a promise to future generations,” said Frank McKay, Chair of the NAPS Board. “Our First Nations deserve the same safety guarantees as all Canadians.”
With this agreement, NAPS solidifies its role as the largest First Nations police service in Canada, a step forward in ensuring safety and security for First Nations communities in Northern Ontario.
Photo: Nishnawbe Aski Police Service
