In October 2022, concerns were raised that the RCMP has not recruited enough officers to provide close protection work, undermining RCMP's capabilities to protect VIPs.[3]
Under a 2022-23 Departmental Plan, the RCMP PPS will move to a centralized model to provide enhanced oversight/compliance.[4]
In May 2023, the RCMP is given more funding to establish more close protection units for politicians, depending on risk assessment.[5]
Organisation
PPS operations consist of RCMP officers, assisted by civilian and public servants who specialise in intelligence analysis, geospatial analysis and technological expertise.[1]
A number of RCMP close protection units include the Governor General Protective Detail, the Prime Minister Protective Detail and the Divisional Protective Services.[6]
Duties
RCMP officers in PPS operations are responsible for protecting the following VIPs:[7]
Prospective RCMP officers are placed under the National Close Protection Officer Course as of March 2022.[6]
Provincial counterparts
Many provinces have a similar organization that is responsible for the protection of the provincial Lieutenant-Governor, the Premier, other members of the provincial cabinet, and members of the judiciary.