EDMONTON – Alberta sheriffs are doing exemplary work to keep Albertans safe, and Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) is calling on the government to recognize that work by increasing their wages.
According to the Alberta government announcement today, the Fugitive Apprehension Sheriffs Support Team (FASST) has removed more than 300 wanted offenders from Alberta communities since becoming operational in February.
“It comes as no surprise that Alberta’s highly qualified and skilled sheriffs are being called upon to perform the important work of keeping our communities safe,” AUPE Vice President Bobby-Joe Borodey said.
The government applauded the taskforce for taking more than 260 Tier 1 fugitives, who are considered the most dangerous and prolific offenders in the province, off the streets.
“What is concerning is the government has made it clear that sheriffs are working in very dangerous situations but there has been no mention of ensuring this increased scope of work is appropriately compensated,” Borodey said.
Borodey said AUPE members are working alongside frontline officers like RCMP, Calgary and Edmonton Police Services and should be supported with additional resources.
“Sheriffs are already experiencing a huge wage disparity that must be addressed,” Borodey added. “I look forward to seeing the government's plan regarding wage increases considering the additional scope of practice, responsibility and added measure of danger.”
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