After having decreased since 2011, the rate of police strength in Canada was stable in the second year of the pandemic, in comparison with the previous survey cycle (2019). There were 70,131 police officers in Canada on May 15, 2021, 1,386 more than on the same date in 2019. In 2021, the rate of police strength was 183 officers per 100,000 population, similar to 2019.
Since March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has had significant repercussions in Canada and around the world. In many respects, the pandemic has changed the day-to-day functioning of the Canadian working population. While for many types of jobs, individuals were able to continue their professional activities remotely via telework, some other jobs, especially those deemed essential, have had to be adapted so that workplaces remain open and available despite these unprecedented times. Policing, like many other occupations, has been declared essential.
Canada's police services are mandated with the essential task of administering and maintaining law and order across Canada. They also have to ensure public safety and are an essential service during times of crisis, such as in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Often, police officers are among the first responders to mental health calls, drug overdoses, suicides, public disturbances, motor vehicle accidents, and many other community safety and well-being issues that may not be criminal.
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