PRINCE ALBERT — The Government of Saskatchewan says it is working with RCMP and northern leaders to address community safety concerns following calls from Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation leaders for increased policing and support in Pelican Narrows.
The response comes after PBCN and Prince Albert Grand Council leaders raised concerns about violence in the community during a recent media conference, saying residents — including children and Elders — are living in fear because of ongoing gun violence.
Asked by SaskToday about RCMP staffing concerns in Pelican Narrows, where PBCN leaders say only eight officers are currently serving despite 15 allocated positions, the province said it is supporting recruitment and retention efforts.
“The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to the recruiting and retention efforts of the RCMP and has recently launched a national advertising campaign for policing and law enforcement careers in Saskatchewan,” the Ministry of Community Safety said.
“The government has also reaffirmed our support for funding all vacancies in the authorized annex of RCMP ‘F’ Division.”
When asked whether many Saskatchewan communities are currently understaffed with RCMP officers, the province said, “Government is working with RCMP and communities to manage those challenges.”
The province also highlighted recent investments into community safety initiatives in northern and First Nations communities.
“The Government of Saskatchewan announced over $1.3M to stabilize and expand Saskatchewan’s First Nations Community Safety Officer program in partnership with the federal government,” the response stated.
According to the province, there are currently 73 appointed community safety officers employed by 25 municipalities and First Nations serving 45 communities across Saskatchewan.
The government noted PBCN joined the First Nations Community Safety Officer pilot program in 2024-25 and said one community safety officer is currently based in Pelican Narrows.
In response to concerns raised by PBCN leaders about public safety and gun violence affecting children and Elders, the province said, “Government is working with the RCMP and with PBCN to strengthen community safety initiatives and address local priorities.”
Vice-Chief David Tsannie previously called for a meeting with provincial and federal ministers within the next month to discuss northern safety concerns. Asked whether the province would commit to meeting with northern leaders, the government said, “The Minister’s Office of the Honourable Michael Weger has been in contact with leadership regarding this matter, including Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte of the Prince Albert Grand Council.”
SaskToday also asked whether PBCN or PAGC had directly requested meetings with the ministry before issuing their public statements. The province responded that the “Ministry is in frequent contact with PBCN and has met as recently as May 21.”
