New Nootka Sound RCMP Detachment opens in Gold River

Gold River, Tahsis, Island District, Nootka Sound

2024-10-02 12:39 PDT

The Villages of Gold River and Tahsis, along with Tsaxana welcomed the opening of a newly constructed Nootka Sound RCMP detachment on October 1, 2024. Approximately 75 people were in attendance including the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation as the grand opening ceremony marked a significant moment in the community’s history.

Replacing the over 50-year-old previous detachment, this newly constructed one-story building boasts a contemporary design and West Coast aesthetic. It incorporated net-zero strategies and solar panels to provide renewable energy with mechanical and electrical systems designed to work with, and enhance the electrification strategies including a photovoltaic system.

Picture of the new modernized North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP Detachment.

The Nootka Sound RCMP Detachment has frontline police officers and support staff to serve all of the people in the Villages of Gold River and Tahsis as well as Tsaxana, home of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation (MMFN). Both Chief Jerry Jack and Chief Nathan George were both in attendance and Chief Jack started off with the first speech.

Picture of Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation Chief Jack at the podium giving a speech.

Mayor Michael Lott, Village of Gold River said As we have been working on the future of Gold River, we are pleased to see a new police services detachment that will meet the needs of the community and area into the future.

Nootka Sound Detachment Commander Sgt. Greg Young spoke to the detachment’s connection to the community as a partnership and shared commitment to safety. Our goal with this new detachment is simple: to provide the best service we can, and to enhance our connection with each of you. We’re not just here to enforce the law; we’re here to be part of the community, to listen, and to work together to address the unique needs and concerns that arise.

Group picture of VIPs and ceremony speakers with RCMP officers dress in ceremonial red serge.

As the District Commander of the RCMP Island District in BC, Chief Superintendent Shawna Baher said Our approach to policing on Vancouver Island has always been about more than just enforcement. It’s about listening, learning, and engaging with the communities we serve. This detachment will be a cornerstone for such efforts, ensuring that we address local needs effectively while honoring the diverse cultures and values of our Indigenous partners.

The establishment of this new detachment marks a vital development in our overarching mission of ensuring safety and fostering positive relationships throughout the province. It reflects our dedication to enhancing our service and responsiveness, particularly in the unique and diverse regions we are privileged to patrol such as the communities of Nootka Sound, said BC RCMP Commanding Officer, Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald.

Picture of Village of Gold River Mayor Michael Lott, Village of Tahsis Mayor Martin Davis, Nootka Sound Detachment Commander Sergeant Greg Young, Mowachaht Muchalaht First Nation Chief Nathan George and Chief Jerry Jack, and BC RCMP Commanding Officer Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald cutting the ceremonial cake.

The new Nootka Sound RCMP detachment is located at 495 Maquinna Crescent in Gold River, B.C.

Released by:
BC RCMP Communications
778-290-2929

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