(ST. JOHN’S, NL), April 9, 2020– The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) provides a community update leading in to the Easter weekend.
As we approach Easter weekend in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is clear that we are at a critical stage of our response to the COVID-19 virus. Our community has an opportunity to take control, limit the impact, and save lives across our province. We all have a role to play in achieving our goal to flatten the curve, as it is made clear that the virus only moves when we move. By limiting vehicular traffic to essential travel only, we are further mitigating risk of contact within our community.
We are focused on education, and working to build safe and healthy communities together. We have been met with overwhelming support and compliance, for which our officers and their families cannot thank you all enough.
As outlined by our government officials, the measures which have been provided to mitigate risk and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community have already had an impact. Failure to comply with these measures put the health and safety of our community at risk and will not be tolerated. Our COVID-19 Enforcement Unit remains active, following up on information received through the government online reporting tool. In addition, our front line members will intervene and action appropriately in relation to non-compliance. Our officers have the ability to issue summary offence tickets under the Public Health Protection and Promotion Act.
We know that conditions in place to prevent the spread of this virus are advantageous for abusers. We are actively working to detect intimate partner violence in our communities, we are analyzing reports of all types, and we ask the community to report any suspicion of violence. It is important for victims to know that our facilities are accessible and safe for you, and you can contact us at our detachments by phone. Call 9-1-1 in a case of an emergency, we will respond and help you.
This pandemic also poses increased challenges upon mental health. Please know that we are here for you, and if you are struggling, we are always available to talk. You can also reach out to the Crisis Line, or contact 9-1-1 in a case of an emergency.
We are imploring upon our community to do what we all do best, take care of each other. There is no better way to do so right now than to stay home. We wish our community a safe and healthy Easter. We are in this together.
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Cst. James C. Cadigan, #775
Media Relations Officer
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
(709) 729-8658