Systemic Investigation of the RCMP "E" Division Community-Industry Response Group (C-IRG)

Terms of Reference 

This systemic investigation will examine the governance, structure and operations of the RCMP "E" Division C-IRG—with a focus on authorities and accountability. 

In this regard, the review will include a detailed examination of relevant RCMP policies, procedures, guidelines and training to assess their adequacy, appropriateness, sufficiency and clarity, in accordance with section 45.34(1) of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Act.

To this end, the review will examine whether relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and training:

• clearly define the RCMP's and C-IRG's authorities, roles, and requirements;
• are consistent with applicable jurisprudence/case law and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms; and
• reflect previous relevant CRCC recommendations and other good/leading practices. 

The systemic investigation will also include a comprehensive file review to assess whether or to what extent the activities and operations of the C-IRG are carried out in accordance with legal standards, policy requirements, and leading practices.

Where appropriate, the systemic investigation will also identify the extent to which C-IRG's operations and actions meet, reflect, consider or are consistent with the standards and expectations set by Bill C‑15, An Act respecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the British Columbia Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) and the calls for justice from the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Inquiry (MMIWG). 

The file review will focus on the C-IRG's governance, command and control, and operational planning, as well as its activities and enforcement operations with respect to at least three sites:

• the Cooper Creek Cedar Ltd injunction on Salisbury Creek Forestry Road;
• the Coastal GasLink Ltd injunction on Wet'suwet'en traditional territory; and
• the Teal Cedar Products Ltd injunction in the Fairy Creek watershed.

In some cases, representative sampling may be required and additional sites may be added.

It should be noted that the systemic investigation will not investigate individual complaints or make determinations with respect to individual member conduct. In cases where member conduct is of serious concern, the matter will be forwarded to the Chairperson for consideration of further action.