Halifax’s law enforcement agencies are seeking additional resources in their upcoming budget proposals to address intimate partner violence (IPV) and bolster their understaffed civilian 911 dispatch unit. Both Halifax RCMP and Halifax Regional Police presented their budget requests for the 2026-27 fiscal year to the board of police commissioners, outlining the need for increased manpower.
The RCMP is requesting funding for nine new officers, with a budget allocation of approximately $1.8 million. This includes the addition of two investigators to the IPV unit, aiming to enhance the existing team to four members. The push for more personnel comes in the wake of a surge in IPV incidents following the provincial declaration of an epidemic, which was accompanied by a series of domestic homicides.
Chief Supt. John Duff of Halifax RCMP emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships with shelters and community organizations to combat IPV effectively. He stressed the need for specialized investigations to be conducted swiftly and efficiently to address the complex nature of these cases. The latest budget report from the RCMP revealed a significant rise in IPV cases within their jurisdiction, with 418 reported incidents by July, nearly double the figures from the previous year.
In addition to addressing IPV concerns, the RCMP’s budget proposal includes plans for six new officers dedicated to establishing a community policing office in Eastern Passage. This initiative aims to improve response times and increase police presence in a community projected to experience substantial growth in the coming years.
Meanwhile, Halifax Regional Police are seeking to recruit eight new civilian 911 dispatchers to alleviate staffing shortages and reduce reliance on mandatory overtime. Chief Don MacLean highlighted the importance of these roles in ensuring public safety, as dispatchers handle emergency calls from various agencies and play a critical role in emergency response efforts.
The public will have the opportunity to provide feedback on both budget proposals during a virtual meeting on October 6. The board of police commissioners is scheduled to make a final decision on the budgets by October 29, with regional council approval expected in 2026.
Overall, the proposed budget allocations aim to strengthen law enforcement capabilities, enhance community engagement, and improve emergency response services in Halifax.
