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NPF poll shows strong public support for N.L. RCMP, highlights funding disparity

Sep. 25, 2025, St. John’s, Nfld. – A recent public opinion poll shows strong and growing support for RCMP members in Newfoundland and Labrador, alongside public concern over a growing funding gap between the RCMP and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC).

The survey, conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights for the National Police Federation (NPF) in August, found that nearly four in five residents (79 per cent) have a favourable view of RCMP officers, an increase from 75 per cent last year. Support is even higher (81 per cent) among those living in RCMP-policed jurisdictions.

Despite high public support, the NPF highlighted a significant disparity in funding increases over the past three years. RCMP budgets have risen by only 15 per cent, compared to 22 per cent for the RNC. This is despite the RCMP policing over 80 per cent of the province’s landmass, serving more than half its population, and seeing a 12 per cent increase in calls for service, compared to an 8 per cent increase in RNC areas.

“The RNC serves primarily smaller urban areas yet continues to receive a greater share of funding increases,” said Brian Sauvé, President and CEO of the NPF. “Meanwhile, RCMP Members… are being stretched increasingly thin and are in urgent need of additional resources to meet growing demand.”

Key findings from the survey indicate that:

• A combined 74 per cent of respondents agree the RCMP should receive higher or equivalent funding compared to the RNC, given their broader scope.
• Nearly two-thirds of residents (65 per cent) want a clear provincial policing plan from the government ahead of the upcoming election.

The NPF is advocating for sustained investment in RCMP resources, particularly as calls from the public and municipalities increase for more police to address drug-related crime.