Oct 25, 2021
Faye Wightman, Vice-Chair and Board spokesperson:

On October 21, 2021, the Director of Police Services released the final report from the independent review of the Vancouver Police Board’s (Board) response to a 2018 service or policy complaint related to street checks, made by the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and BC Civil Liberties. The Board acknowledges the insightful and thorough assessment by David Loukidelis, QC, of our handling of this service or policy complaint; this independent review is a valuable tool in ensuring public sector accountability. The Board appreciates his recognition of where appropriate steps were taken by the Board and management, and also welcomes the positive change that will emerge from the recommendations on areas where improvements to process can be made.

The Board is made up of eight volunteers (plus the Board Chair) who are committed to learning, adapting and evolving in order to best meet the needs of the community, while ensuring public safety. The public can feel assured that any actions taken by the Board are done with the utmost integrity. We are dedicated to governing the Vancouver Police Department in a manner that is fair, impartial, and accountable to the community as a whole.

Since the initial handling of the 2018 complaint, the Board has taken many proactive steps towards improving our service or policy process and public communications, in order to increase transparency and openness with those we serve. Mr. Loukidelis has made valuable recommendations, which will guide every police board in the Province in creating continued positive change in police oversight and governance.

The final report, and the Terms of Reference can be found here: Independent Reports on Policing.