News release

Province to Recognize Retired Long-serving Police Officers

Justice

The province will recognize retired police officers for years of dedicated service to Nova Scotians with changes to the Nova Scotia Police Long Service Award.

Since the legislation was created in 2007, the Nova Scotia Police Long Service Award has recognized police officers for 15 and 25 years of consecutive police service in Nova Scotia. However, those who retired before 2007 were not eligible. This year, that will change.

"Nova Scotians rely on police officers to keep our communities, our roads, our homes and our families safe," said Justice Minister Ross Landry. "I strongly believe that every police officer who dedicates their lives to this invaluable public service should be recognized."

This year, the province will begin recognizing officers with 15 years and 25 years of consecutive police service in Nova Scotia, who retired before 2007.

Consecutive years of service with the former Halifax Port Authority Police, Military Police or CNR Police in Nova Scotia will be considered as eligible years of service.

"This is great news for many retired police officers in Nova Scotia," said Chief Mark Mander, president of the Nova Scotia Association of Chiefs of Police. "Having substantial years of service recognized by the province is both an honour and a privilege, and I am happy to see this change being made."

To apply:

  • retired officers must complete the Police Long Service Award nomination form at www.gov.ns.ca/just
  • the police chief, commanding officer or designate must verify the years of service.
  • the police agency must submit the completed form to the Justice Department.

Nominations close June 1.

For more information, visit www.gov.ns.ca/just.