Alberta Justice Minister Kaycee Madu has banned police carding in the province.

Madu said banning the practice of police officers randomly stopping people and demanding ID is a “real solution” for police to be able to help build a bridge of trust with minorities.

Madu also introduced new rules regarding police street checks. Police services will now have to file quarterly and annual reports to the government on information gleaned in the checks.

“We need to address racism right now,” said Madu at a Thursday press conference

“I do believe the answer we are looking for does not come from defunding the police. That is pandering to a far-left ideology being presented by radicals.”

Madu said carding has been “misused” in the past causing legitimate concerns in racialized communities.

“Carding has been an inappropriate use of police power,” he said.

UCP Chief Government Whip and Calgary MLA Mike Ellis has been pushing for the ban since he joined politics from the Calgary Police Service.

He said while in opposition he received pushback on the idea from the ruling NDP and police forces in Edmonton and Lethbridge.

Minority group representitives at Thursday’s press conference praised Madu for the change.

“Today’s announcement is a significant step in the right direction to build trust between the Black community and police services.” said Kemoh Mansaray, board chair, Africa Centre.

“It is great to see the Alberta government’s commitment to true reconciliation. Banning carding and establishing clear rules for common interactions between police and the public will ensure the rights of all Albertans are protected. We’ve been asking for these changes for years and want to acknowledge this government’s leadership by standing with us against racism,” said Chief Ouray Crowfoot, Siksika Nation.

Joining the praise was Edmonton Police Service Chief Dale McPhee who thanked Madu for his “quick action.”

“The Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police is in full support of the province’s guidelines on street checks. While the practice of carding has no place in policing, street checks are a valuable investigative tool that allow police officers to develop street-level intelligence while balancing the rights of all Albertans. It is important that every member of the public is treated with respect and in a fair manner, and we believe that setting these standards across the province will achieve this while strengthening relationships with the communities we serve,” said McFee who is also president of Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police.

CPS Chief Mark Neufeld said talks about carding and street checks have been ongoing since 2016.

He said the CPS conducts about one street check per hour – with most of them happening because of calls for service from the public.

“We are pleased the provincial government has recognized the importance of the street check process and the role it plays in public safety. The Calgary Police Service policy and procedures around street checks are currently well aligned with the direction contained in what we have seen of the new policing standards. We will continue to work with the province on the implementation of these new standards, as well as with our communities, to ensure greater understanding and confidence in this practice.”

Dave Naylor is the News Editor of the Western Standard
dnaylor@westernstandardonline.com
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