Released on June 27, 2018
The Saskatchewan Highway Patrol now has a new look to accompany its new name and mandate. Two weeks ago, the former Commercial Vehicle Enforcement group was renamed as the Saskatchewan Highway Patrol to reflect its expanded responsibilities.
The new name comes with a new look – a blue stripe down the side of the vehicle along with the Saskatchewan Highway Patrol name and crest. In addition to protecting the provincial highway system through the enforcement of commercial vehicles, the Saskatchewan Highway Patrol will support the provincial Protection and Response Team (PRT) and enforce Criminal Code violations.
“Beginning July 1, people will see the new Saskatchewan Highway Patrol vehicles on highways throughout the province,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister David Marit said. “The officers will be responding to situations where previously only the police would be involved. Drivers need to be aware that Saskatchewan Highway Patrol officers will now be enforcing traffic violations for commercial and private vehicles.”
Last year, the Government of Saskatchewan announced the creation of the PRT to help reduce crime in rural Saskatchewan. The team is comprised of police officers from the RCMP and municipal police forces, as well as Saskatchewan Highway Patrol officers from the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure and Ministry of Environment Conservation Officers.
Commercial vehicle enforcement will remain the primary responsibility of the Saskatchewan Highway Patrol. However, the officers will have additional responsibilities, including arrest and detention powers, to support their role on the PRT.
Other duties will include:
- Responding to 911 calls;
- Investigating impaired drivers;
- Enforcing speed limits and other traffic violations – inside and outside of work zones;
- Responding to motor vehicle accidents; and
- Taking action when offences are committed.
“Increasing the presence of uniformed officers in rural areas will help deter crime,” Marit said. “It will also improve response times to emergency calls, including crimes that are in progress.”
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For more information, contact:
Paul Spasoff
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4804
Email: paul.spasoff@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-1603