Clive Weighill new president of national police association

VICTORIA – The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) has a new president – Saskatoon police Chief Clive Weighill.

Weighill was elected at the annual gathering of Canadian police leaders taking place in Victoria.

He discussed some of the key priorities facing forces across the country, including mental health and policing.

“CACP members and the public at large strongly feel that those suffering such illness most often need the health system rather than the justice system,” said Weighill.

“This issue is on the mind of every police leader in Canada. Improvements can and in many cases have already been made.”

Weighill also said CACP supports the “Victims Bill of Rights” legislation along with laws protecting people online and stated the need for a national public safety broadband network.

He also wants action taken on First Nations policing.

“Those within the law enforcement community cannot help but recognize the marginalized conditions that too often face First Nations people,” said Weighill.

“We need to work with the federal government on strategies to improve living conditions and prevent recruiting by gangs and enticement towards prostitution and drug abuse.”

Weighill has 39 years of policing experience and was named chief of Saskatoon Police Service in 2006 after spending 31 years with Regina Police Service.