Home Newsroom 2006 News releases 2006-08-11: Public Safety Minister announces new location for RCMP national headquarters

Public Safety Minister announces new location for RCMP national headquarters

Ottawa, August 11, 2006 -- The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety, announced today that headquarters for Canada’s national police force will be relocated to a new facility in south Ottawa.

“Tackling crime is a key priority for us, which includes ensuring that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has the tools and resources it needs to effectively fulfill its policing responsibilities,” said Minister Day. “This new location will provide the RCMP with the kind of facilities they require to enforce our laws and protect Canadians.”

The government’s commitment to strengthening the RCMP, combined with the ever-evolving nature of crime, highlight the need for more flexible and expandable facilities. The new campus at 3000 Merivale Road is a larger, more effective space, that will better facilitate overall service delivery to Canadians. The new location will also enable a seamless transition with minimal disruption to RCMP operations.

“Currently, the RCMP operates out of multiple buildings and sites within the National Capital Region," said Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli. "The move will provide the RCMP with an environmentally efficient work space that will accommodate headquarters employees and operations in one modernized policing facility."

This government is committed to ensuring that contracts awarded represent the best value for Canadian taxpayers. Other suppliers were recently given the opportunity to demonstrate whether there were better offers available before a final decision was made. The current agreement remains the best option.

Public Works and Government Services Canada will oversee necessary renovations to convert the space from mixed lab and office space to office accommodations for the RCMP. The move is expected to begin in approximately two or three years.

See also:

• 3000 Merivale Road : Best value for money

For further information:

Media Relations
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada
613-991-0657

Media Relations
Public Works and Government Services Canada
819-956-2315

Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Stockwell Day
Minister of Public Safety
613-991-2863