Feds, RCMP offer little insight into Indigenous pot enforcement

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The federal government and the RCMP are offering little reaction to comments from Public Safety Minister Kris Austin about the province’s seemingly imbalanced enforcement of illegal cannabis operations.

Brunswick News asked Austin why public safety officers recently raided a black-market pot shop in Saint John, but don’t appear to be applying the same rules to weed operations on First Nations.

“Regardless, there are federal statutes that are there in terms of seizing property on First Nations. So until there’s some change in federal legislation, and understanding of how the federal criminal code works, we’re stuck as a province to be able to seize any property on First Nations.

“We can only work within provincial legislation. It’s up to our federal counterparts to do their part.”

Brunswick News asked Ottawa for comment, but was eventually redirected back to the provincial RCMP headquarters, even after Austin’s comments about federal legislation were provided. A spokesperson for Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada said the RCMP “seems to be the one best suited for what you are looking for.”

On Tuesday, Cpl. Hans Ouellette reminded Brunswick News that the RCMP only enforces laws, and doesn’t create them.

He then sent a statement.

“The enforcement of the Cannabis Act on First Nations communities in Canada is complex. The RCMP engages with communities, policing partners, and the Canadian Department of Justice on this matter,” the statement read.

“We work regularly with Indigenous communities to identify issues of local concern, discuss solutions, and to set local policing priorities. We also seek ongoing input and regular advice from our Indigenous Employees Advisory Committee and the RCMP’s Indigenous Policing Service.

“Cannabis remains a controlled substance. The only legal way to obtain marijuana is to purchase it from a licensed producer or distributor. Businesses or individuals operating in contravention of the law may be investigated and can be charged.

“The RCMP has conducted and continues enforcement action as and when appropriate. The RCMP in New Brunswick is committed to ensuring safety in the communities we serve and resources are deployed as and when required.

“We also encourage anyone who suspects illegal drug activity to contact their local police to report it, which helps inform our investigations and give us a more accurate picture of what’s going on in the communities we serve.”