06/10/2026
Montreal Lake Cree Nation breaks ground on new RCMP detachment
(Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Treaty 6 Territory) — Montreal Lake Cree Nation (MLCN) has broken ground on a new RCMP detachment, marking what leadership says is an important step toward improving community safety and emergency response.
The Nation has broken ground on a new RCMP detachment, a major step forward in strengthening community safety, emergency response and policing services for members.
The ceremony was held today at the RCMP construction site at 3002 Highway 969 on Montreal Lake Cree Nation, about 100 kilometres north of Prince Albert.
The event brought together MLCN leadership, Prince Albert Grand Council, the RCMP, and project partners to mark the beginning of construction on the new facility.
“This is an important milestone for Montreal Lake Cree Nation,” said Chief Joyce Naytowhow-McLeod. “The new RCMP detachment will support community safety, strengthen emergency response and help ensure our members have access to policing services closer to home.”
The ceremony included an opening prayer led by Prince Albert Grand Council Senator Noland Henderson, welcoming remarks from MLCN Vice Chief Dean Henderson, and remarks from Chief Naytowhow-McLeod, PAGC Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte, PAGC Vice Chief Joseph Tsannie and RCMP Operations representatives. A ceremonial groundbreaking and photo opportunity followed.
Chief Naytowhow-McLeod said the project is the result of years of advocacy, planning and partnership to improve public safety infrastructure for the Nation.
“Our Nation has continued to speak up for the safety and well-being of our people,” she said. “This new detachment is part of building the infrastructure our community needs today and for future generations.”
She said the new detachment also reflects a shared responsibility between MLCN and the RCMP to build trust and improve public safety outcomes for residents.
“Our community deserves a policing presence that is responsive, accessible and rooted in relationship,” she said. “This facility is a foundation — one we intend to build on together.”
“We’re gathered here to break ground on the new Montreal Lake RCMP Detachment,” said Sergeant Rene Giroux, Detachment Commander of Waskesiu RCMP/Montreal Lake RCMP. “We’re not just starting construction on a building. We’re breaking ground on a modern, welcoming space where community members can report crime, connect with officers, and continue to strengthen community partnerships.”
“We are committed to finding solutions in partnership with the communities we serve,” said Staff Sergeant Richard Tonge, Acting North District Commander of the Saskatchewan RCMP. “I am very pleased to see that this partnership is thriving in Montreal Lake Cree Nation. Without strong relationships and collaboration, we cannot create meaningful and lasting change. The new detachment in Montreal Lake Cree Nation is another step forward in strengthening that partnership by providing a welcoming and safe place for community members to connect with our officers.”
The new detachment is being constructed by EllisDon Corporation, with Republic Architecture serving as project director.
The RCMP’s Project Management Office is overseeing the build.
