News Archives: RCMP and GPRC in Academic Partnership
Wednesday, June 4th, 2014
An agreement for academic partnership between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police “K” Division (RCMP) and Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC) is opening possibilities for research projects and educational opportunities which will contribute toward community policing initiatives and initiatives in public safety.
The involvement of RCMP and GPRC personnel at many levels over the past couple of years has resulted in the recently-signed formal agreement, and is one of the first attempts Canada-wide to drive this type of initiative at the local level. The relationship is mutually beneficial, providing research and educational options for GPRC faculty and students, while enhancing the ability of the RCMP to find innovative ways to plan and direct enforcement and education programs.
Among the first projects is a study of traffic collision data which will apply proven research methods to the analysis of behaviours and the impact of enforcement strategies. The resulting information will allow more effective use of resources.
“The RCMP, at many levels, in cooperation with the GRPC worked very hard to bring this meaningful partnership to fruition. I believe that this partnership will help the RCMP study and assess behavioral issues affecting its citizens and help make Grande Prairie a safer community to work, visit and live in” says Supt Ray Noble, Grande Prairie RCMP Detachment Commander.
While the initial one-year Academic Partnership Agreement is specifically geared toward research projects, it is anticipated that over the long term the two organizations could be working together to develop educational programs for delivery in the region. The research projects are managed at GPRC through the Centre for Research & Innovation (CRI.)
“GPRC is exceptionally pleased to have this opportunity to contribute to the wellbeing of our community through this Academic Partnership with the RCMP,” says Don Gnatiuk, President and CEO of GPRC. “This agreement enhances a relationship which was already strong and mutually supportive, and we look forward to many valuable and exciting projects in the future.”
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For more information please contact:
Bruce Rutley, Director
Centre for Research & Innovation
Grande Prairie Regional College
780-539-2220
BRutley@gprc.ab.ca
OR
Cpl. Roy Kennedy
Grande Prairie RCMP Detachment
NCO i/c Community Policing & Media Relations Officer
(780) 830-5734 Desk
(780) 882-2750 Cellular