Gatineau’s chief heads the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police

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The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) members elected Gatineau Police Chief Mario Harel as their new president in mid-August.

During the CACP’s Annual General Meeting in Ottawa, Chief Harel was elected unanimously for a two-year term. Harel brings 32 years of policing experience and a history of contribution to the CACP, having served on the Board of Directors and as Vice-President. Harel replaces Saskatoon’s Chief Clive Weighill.

Following his nomination, Harel declared that “it has been stated that encounters with police represent the failures of our society, overall. We need to challenge all peoples, all cultures and professionals from all disciplines to work together to find smart solutions to the complex problems affecting our communities. We need to challenge our own profession to speak honestly and openly about what works and what does not, and to further develop the trust and confidence of those we serve.”

The key issues for the new CACP president include the file of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.

“The CACP is absolutely committed to working with all facets of the national inquiry and to help provide closure to the families affected. If a particular event requires review or clarification, we will assist the commissioners and the family involved,” Harel stated.

The CACP, established in 1905, represents approximately 1,000 police leaders across Canada. Through its member police chiefs and other senior police executives, the CACP represents in excess of 90% of the police community in Canada, including federal, First Nations, provincial, regional and municipal, transportation and military police leaders.