NCJ Number
195089
Date Published
2002
Length
64 pages
Annotation
This paper examines changes in the provision of security to Canadians.
Abstract
It begins with a review of security arrangements in Canada, followed by a discussion of the growth of networks of policing that involve both public and private actors. Next, a short review of the history of policing is presented. Three sections of the paper then examine governance issues, including the current legal environment, the values that should inspire democratic policing in Canada, and the various ways of regulating policing in Canada. The paper distinguishes between police as an institution and policing as an activity. Prior to September 11th, the historical trajectory for security in Canada was to rely more and more on private security firms to provide for economic and physical security. It is too early to tell how durable this movement will be under public pressure for the most effective security possible. There are four core principles that ought to support democratic policing in Canada: justice, equality, accountability, and efficiency. Justice means that all individuals should to be treated fairly and their "rights" respected. Equality means, first, that all Canadians should to receive policing service sufficient to feel safe in their community. Equality also means that there should to be representation and participation from all members of society in the delivery of policing services. Accountability requires that the actions of a person are subject to review and that there are formal channels that individuals can use to lodge a complaint. Finally, efficiency means that services are provided in a cost effective manner. The development of an effective and representative security industry association, the enactment of minimum standards for training, and the creation of effective oversight bodies may go a long way toward ensuring that policing services are delivered in accordance with democratic values. 30 references