REGINA, SK - Wednesday, September 16, 2009 - Today, the RCMP celebrates the 35th anniversary of women serving as police officers in the Force. Thirty-two women made Canadian history when they were hired as the country's first female Mounties on September 16, 1974. Ranging in age from 19 to 29 and representing all provinces with the exception of Prince Edward Island, this first all-female troop graduated from “Depot”-the RCMP Academy-on March 3, 1975.
“The pioneering members of Troop 17 rewrote the role of women in policing. Since then, female Mounties have served in ranks from Constable to Commissioner. These women-and all female officers who have followed in their footsteps-deserve our gratitude and admiration,” said RCMP Commissioner William Elliott.
The graduation of the first female troop was followed by several other “female firsts” in the RCMP. In the 1980s, the first women were promoted to corporal and served on the Musical Ride. In the 1990s, women were appointed Detachment Commanders and commissioned as officers. The first female Assistant Commissioner was appointed in 1998. On December 16, 2006, Beverley Ann Busson, a member of Troop 17, was appointed the 21st Commissioner of the RCMP.
Today there are approximately 3,755 women serving as regular members of the RCMP. Throughout the RCMP's 136-year history, women have made significant contributions to the Force and to Canada. This has included their essential work as public servants, civilian members and municipal employees.
The RCMP remains committed to promoting and supporting equity within its employment and recruiting practices.
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For more information, contact:
- RCMP Media Relations, Ottawa (613) 993-2999
- “Depot” Media Relations, Regina (306) 780-5705
