May 14, 2026

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Welcome to Rideau Hall.

We are gathered on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation.

In that spirit, I want to recognize the vital contributions of Indigenous Peoples who serve in police services across Canada every day.

Congratulations to all those being invested into or promoted within the Order of Merit of the Police Forces.

I am happy to celebrate your achievements during National Police Week.

This week, Canadians nationwide are recognizing the essential work you do in our communities.

And that recognition is well deserved.

Few callings in this country are as demanding as wearing the badge.

It requires teamwork, discipline, endurance and the ability to perform under pressures that few Canadians will ever know.

Shift after shift.

Day after day.

As police officers—and as leaders and allies to those on the front lines—you are called upon to wear many hats.

You are there for your communities in their most difficult moments.

You are often first on the scene after accidents.

You support families in crisis. You comfort those affected by violence. You confront complex challenges related to substance use, mental health and addiction.

You also demonstrate extraordinary adaptability as the public safety landscape across Canada changes rapidly.

Through it all, you have served with courage, professionalism and an unwavering sense of duty.

Canada is grateful for your exceptional service.

Today, we honour your exceptional service and the families who stand behind you.

Their sacrifices and support make your service possible, and their resilience mirrors your own.

To close where I began, thank you to everyone on your all-star lineup—including your loved ones—for their essential teamwork.

Congratulations!