Saskatchewan recruiting chief marshal for new provincial police force

The Saskatchewan Marshals Service is expected to be up and running by 2026, and the provincial government is looking for a person to take on the role of chief marshal.

The service is expected to consist of about 70 officers and support staff, who will enforce laws around the province, conduct investigations and support other police agencies in their work.

A media release said the service will focus on crime in rural and remote parts of the province, arresting high-risk offenders, and investigating agriculture-related crimes “such as cattle, crop, metal and farm chemical thefts, and trespassing that may result in crop damage.”

Paul Merriman, minister of corrections, policing, and public safety, said it’s critical to have the right people in place as the service is developed.

“We’re looking for someone who can simultaneously act as a leader, a mentor, and a relationship builder,” Merriman said in a statement issued Tuesday.

“This is an excellent opportunity to make a positive impact in our province, and I urge anybody with the skills and experience to apply and tell us what their vision is for enhancing public safety in Saskatchewan communities.”

According to the provincial government, the chief marshal will help develop the service before it becomes operational, and will then oversee the entire service’s operations.

“The successful candidate for the Chief Marshal position must be an experienced senior law enforcement executive with a demonstrated track record of achieving results and collaborating with other police and criminal justice partners,” the government wrote in a statement.

“They must also have a comprehensive knowledge of contemporary policing practices, and emerging trends in crime and public safety.”

Applications can be made online, with a closing date of Sept. 24.

Despite the fact the marshals service is not yet up and running, it’s already facing criticism from the official opposition and police.

Last month, the Saskatchewan NDP raised concerns about oversight for the new policing agency, while the Saskatchewan RCMP has noted the high cost of developing a brand-new police force and questioned why that money was not directed into the federal police force instead.