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Operations continue at Regina RCMP training academy despite weeks-long COVID-19 outbreak

This file photo shows RCMP cadets training at the academy in Regina. Cadets and staff have tested positive during a weeks-long outbreak at the academy. (Submitted by RCMP - image credit)
This file photo shows RCMP cadets training at the academy in Regina. Cadets and staff have tested positive during a weeks-long outbreak at the academy. (Submitted by RCMP - image credit)

A COVID-19 outbreak at the RCMP Training Academy, located in Regina, has not had an "adverse effect" on operations, RCMP said in a statement Tuesday.

RCMP confirmed that there had been positive COVID-19 cases among the cadets and staff, but did not disclose the number.

The province said a COVID-19 outbreak began at the academy, also known as Depot, on Dec. 26 and has been active since then.

RCMP said cadets who test positive are provided a private space to isolate, proper medical care, meals and mechanisms to continue training while following the provincial requirements for isolation.

"We had hoped that the situation would have normalized by now, but it remains fluid and we continue to adapt to the ever-changing challenges presented by COVID-19," said Sylvie Bourassa-Muise, chief superintendent and commanding officer of the depot division.

"Since the resumption of training in June 2020, we have taken a proactive approach that prioritizes the health and well-being of cadets and employees."

RCMP said it is using several tactics at the Depot to minimize exposure and spread, including:

  • Providing rapid tests to cadets and employees.

  • Training troops in bubbles.

  • Closing the Depot to the public.

  • Limiting off-base activities.

  • Mandating and providing surgical masks for cadets and employees.

  • Mandating full vaccinations in staff and cadets.

When asked if there had been a change to their training regiment, like reducing or eliminating hand-on training, the RCMP said in an email that new cadets have to isolate for four days and take two rapid tests before joining the training environment.

After they've concluded the four-day isolation, cadets are integrated into a troop, in which people only interact among themselves.