A former RCMP spokesperson who was at the forefront of sexual harassment claims against the force says having a female commissioner at the helm of the RCMP is a breath of fresh air for the organization.
Catherine Galliford says she’s happy about the appointment of Brenda Lucki as the new head of the RCMP, but she said Lucki has to do more than just “talk-the-talk” when it comes to shifting the culture inside the RCMP.
“She’s actually going to have to take action and start holding members of the RCMP accountable for their actions,” Galliford said. “If that includes Criminal Code charges, then bring it on.”
LISTEN: Former RCMP spokesperson talks first female commissioner of the force
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed Lucki on Friday signalling a cultural change in the RCMP. This is after the force was subject to numerous complaints of harassment and sexual discrimination within the force. Prime Minister Trudeau said her main responsibilities will be promoting gender equality and addressing harassment in the workplace.
WATCH: Trudeau names Brenda Lucki as Canada’s first female RCMP commissioner
As reports began surfacing about Prime Minister Trudeau’s decision, Galliford said some serving members and veterans said Lucki only received the job because she was a woman. But Galliford viewed it completely differently.
LISTEN: Discussing some of the challenges the new commissioner may face on Calgary Today
“How many women have been passed over for promotions over the decades and generations in the RCMP because they’re only women?” Galliford said. “Quite frankly, I’m saying it’s about time.”
One piece of advice Galliford gives the new commissioner is to surround herself with people she trusts and that want to make strides in changing the culture.
“She’s going into a circle of senior managers who are a part of the old and the old boys club,” she said. “We all know how the old boys club treats women.”
Galliford said many of her friends who are retired members of the force lie about being a part of the RCMP because they are ashamed to be associated with the organization. She is hoping Lucki will change that.
“Take steps to make people proud about being a part of the RCMP again,” Galliford said.
In 2012, Galliford filed a lawsuit claiming multiple members of the force sexually harassed, assaulted and intimidated her on several occasions.
~With files from the Canadian Press