For immediate release

August 12, 2019

Chamber receives national support in lobby to keep RCMP jobs in Truro

TRURO –  The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce has received support from both the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Atlantic  Chamber of Commerce in its lobby to retain about 55 RCMP jobs in Truro.

Last month, in response to the RCMP’s plan to move its Truro Operational Communications Centre to Halifax Regional Municipality by February 2021, the three business organizations, along with Millbrook First Nation, submitted a joint letter to Bernadette Jordon, Minister of Rural and Economic Development. The letter calls on Jordan to demonstrate that a complete analysis, including the economic impact on Truro if the move proceeds, has been undertaken.

“Failing that, we are asking that the government work with the RCMP to halt its plans to move the Centre until an impact analysis is completed, along with undertaking  meaningful effort to engage with community partners to examine solutions to retain these jobs in Truro,” said Ron Smith, President of the Truro and Colchester chamber.

“We have spoken with several key stakeholders in the community who have offered what we believe to be valid solutions to retaining these jobs, however, there is a frustrating lack of communication between the community and the RCMP, as well as government officials in their capacity to assist in this matter.”

The letter, which was sent to Jordon on July 11, as well as Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Cumberland-Colchester MP Bill Casey, has gone unanswered.

The letter expresses concern over the “impression of a lack of transparency in – and plausible rationale for – the decision to move the Centre” and asks Jordan to provide a credible explanation of why this decision is being made.

“In this election year, small communities throughout Nova Scotia, Atlantic Canada and the entire country will be looking for proof that your government is true to the words in all Ministers’ mandate letters, i.e., ‘Canadians need to have faith in their government’s honesty and willingness to listen.’ They will also be asking, ‘It’s Truro this time, are we next?’,” the letter said.

The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce represents more than 450 members and has been the recognized voice of business in this region for 129 years on economic, political and social matters impacting business.

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Letter to Minister Jordan re Truro RCMP call centre July 11