The Federation of Canadian Municipalities has issued a statement re-iterating its request, consistent with UBCM’s position, that the federal government absorb all retroactive costs associated with the 2017-2023 RCMP Collective Agreement. The federal government recently advised contract partners that it has paused the billing process until a decision is reached regarding this request.
In May 2022, UBCM facilitated meetings between B.C. local governments and Public Safety Canada to discuss the RCMP Collective Agreement and the payment of retroactive costs. In addition to outlining impacts and concerns, local government representatives insisted that the federal government absorb all retroactive costs. Public Safety Canada is currently conducting analysis and developing policy options related to input delivered by B.C. local governments and other contract partners across Canada.
In addition to advocating for relief related to retroactive costs, local governments are also seeking process improvements (e.g. better consultation and communication) in advance of the next round of collective bargaining. With the current Collective Agreement set to expire in March 2023, the next round of negotiations is expected to begin soon.
As the largest RCMP contract jurisdiction, British Columbia is facing the most significant financial impact, projected to be between $138.57 million and $145.62 million for its Municipal Police Unit Agreement contract holders.