Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service secures historic 10-Year funding agreement to transform community policing

The Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service has signed a historic funding agreement with the feds and the province.
Police Chief Ron Gignac says the one hundred- and twelve-million-dollar investment over 10 years enables them to engage in long-term planning, increase uniform and civilian personnel from 40 positions to 72, enhance access to essential resources and more.
He adds immediate efforts include expanding and upgrading existing facilities to meet current needs while planning for a new station.
According to officials, First Nation police forces have traditionally been funded as programs rather than essential services, with short-term agreements lasting only one or two years often leading to severe underfunding. They add this agreement a precedent for other similar First Nation policing services across Canada.
“This is a landmark moment for our community as we address the pressing issue of high crime rates,” said Tim Ominika, Ogimaa of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. “Historically, Wiikwemkoong has faced significant challenges in this area, and this funding agreement provides us with the resources and stability needed to implement effective strategies for lasting change. Community safety doesn’t just happen, it is the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children and the most vulnerable citizens in our community a life free of violence and fear.”
The decade-long commitment offers an unprecedented and much-needed opportunity to proactively address community safety issues.
“Our government partners have been instrumental in finalizing this agreement,” said Joseph Wabegijig, Board President at the WTPS. “We thank them for their long-term investment and look forward to further supporting our community with enhanced capabilities.”