This report summarizes results from a survey of 2,988 Canadians.
Cette publication est aussi disponible en français sous le titre : Sondage d'opinion des Canadiens sur les services de police de la GRC.
This publication may be reproduced for non-commercial purposes only. Prior written permission must be obtained from the RCMP. For more information on this report, please contact the RCMP at: SurveyCentreRCMP-CentresondageGRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Catalogue number:
PS64-154/2021E-PDF
International Standard Book Number (ISBN):
978-0-660-37594-6
Related publications (registration number: POR 100-20):
The RCMP has been conducting surveys of the Canadian public since 2003 to assess Canadians' opinions on quality of service, professionalism, sensitivity, community involvement, visibility, value of partnerships, and communication. Most of the previous editions of the survey were conducted by telephone. However, due to the challenges and costs associated with telephone surveys, in the 2017/18 fiscal year, the RCMP started to conduct the survey using an online/telephone methodology with the same representativeness used in the previous (telephone only) samples.
The current research, for the 2020/21 fiscal year, also involved an online/telephone methodology. A total of 2,988 Canadians were surveyed. As in previous surveys, the sample was drawn from across Canada and was weighted more heavily toward areas policed by the RCMP. The sample was stratified to ensure roughly equal representation from five regions (North, British Columbia, Prairies, Central, and Atlantic). We surveyed roughly 500 residents in the North, and about 600 in each of the other four regions.
As mentioned, the current survey was conducted primarily online (using our probability based online panel, Probit); however, to help with tracking previous survey results (which were conducted by telephone), and to ensure we could collect information from the North (which has a very limited number of panellists), we also conducted interviews by telephone. We completed 1,313 telephone interviews, and 1,675 cases were collected online. Results were weighted by region, gender and age to ensure that the sample is representative of the Canadian population 18 years of age and older.
Survey Findings
Outlined below are key findings from this study. The remainder of this report describes survey results in more detail.
Attitudes to the RCMP
Survey findings reveal that Canadians place a great deal of importance on the RCMP's contribution to public safety. Nine in ten respondents (90 per cent) assign a high degree of importance to the RCMP's role in keeping Canadians safe, and just six per cent say the RCMP's efforts to ensure public safety are of little or no importance. However, tracking suggests that the perceived importance of the RCMP's contribution to public safety is down somewhat over the past year.
Results also reveal that six in ten Canadians (62 per cent) are satisfied with how the RCMP fulfills its role in maintaining public safety, and only one in four (24 per cent) are dissatisfied. However, tracking again reveals a drop in satisfaction with the RCMP's contribution to public safety over the past year.
Results reveal generally positive overall impressions of the RCMP. Seven in ten Canadians (71 per cent) are satisfied with the RCMP's efforts to provide services in both official languages. Six in ten agree that the RCMP prioritizes quality service (62 per cent), and express trust and confidence in the RCMP (60 per cent). However, results also suggest the public perceive gaps in the RCMP's service offerings. Only about four in ten (39 per cent) say the RCMP provides the same quality of service to all citizens, and more than four in ten (44 per cent) disagree with this statement.
Results reveal generally positive views on how the RCMP adheres to its core values. Almost seven in ten (65 per cent) agree that the RCMP demonstrates professionalism in its work, while six in ten say the RCMP operates with integrity (58 per cent). Half believe the RCMP personnel are honest (56 per cent), compassionate (51 per cent), respectful (50 per cent) and that it is an accountable organization (50 per cent). In addition to its core values, slightly more than half believe the RCMP is objective (55 percent). However, as with other results, tracking reveals a decrease in the proportion of Canadians with positive impressions of the RCMP. There is a 13-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who perceive the RCMP as an accountable organization, and an eleven-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who believe the RCMP is an organization with integrity.
The RCMP receives mixed reviews when it comes to issues related to innovation and transparency. Fewer than four in ten respondents (38 per cent) are satisfied with the level of information that the RCMP provides about its work. A similar proportion (36 per cent) agree that the RCMP is a forward-looking and innovative organization. Findings also reveal that almost half of Canadians (47 per cent) disagree with the idea that the RCMP is an open and transparent organization (although it is possible that Canadians may see the RCMP as appropriately not transparent, given the type of information they hold – e.g., criminal records, witness addresses, information before the courts, investigative techniques, etc.).
The RCMP also receives fairly low, and worsening marks on indicators related to sensitivity. Fewer than half of respondents believe that the RCMP is representative of the diverse communities it serves, and that RCMP personnel reflect the cultural diversity in their community. When the scope of the questions is narrowed to focus on specific groups, the RCMP elicits even less favourable reviews. Fewer than four in ten agree that the RCMP is sensitive to the needs of Canada's various cultures and groups, that the RCMP treats women fairly, that it is sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ2 community, or that it is respectful to the cultural needs of Indigenous people. Tracking reveals a decrease in agreement over the past year across all of these issues.
Despite concerns about sensitivity and worsening views on the RCMP's performance in general, results suggest that the RCMP still maintains a widely positive relationship with the public. The vast majority of respondents (82 per cent) say they would help the RCMP if asked, while almost eight in ten (77 per cent) believe they have a moral obligation to follow police orders. Seven in ten (67 per cent) also say they generally support the RCMP's actions. Half agree that the RCMP is dealing with things that matter to their community (50 per cent) and would encourage friends and family to consider the RCMP as a career path (50 per cent). However, as with the other issues, tracking reveals a decline over the past year across all these issues.
In terms of responsiveness, results reveal that Canadians hold generally positive views of the RCMP in this area. More than half (54 per cent) agree that it is quick to respond to calls for assistance, and four in ten (44 per cent) agree that the RCMP rapidly adapts to new and emerging priorities. Fewer than three in ten disagree with either of these statements.
Results also reveal generally positive impressions of the impact of the RCMP on Canadians, although findings also suggest room for improvement in some areas, particularly Indigenous matters. Roughly seven in ten (69 per cent) express confidence in the RCMP's ability to respond to national security threats effectively. More than six in ten agree the RCMP effectively diminishes the threat of organized crime (66 per cent), handles threats to passenger aircraft (64 per cent), mitigates the impact of serious crime (63 per cent), resolves crimes where violence is involved (63 per cent), and provides an adequate response to border threats (63 per cent). Slightly fewer believe the RCMP is effective at reducing the production, sale and distribution of illegal drugs (60 per cent), and countering radicalization to violent extremism (57 per cent). More than half believe the RCMP is effectively responding to cybercrime threats (55 per cent), and improving traffic safety (53 per cent). Slightly fewer agree that the RCMP is successfully addressing youth crime (51 per cent), and lessening the impact of economic crime (51 per cent). However, fewer than half are satisfied with the RCMP's attempts to combat online scams (47 per cent), its contribution to making Canadians more informed and resilient (43 per cent), and its efforts in fostering safer Indigenous communities (39 per cent). Only three in ten (34 per cent) say the RCMP is advancing reconciliation with Canada's Indigenous peoples.
Most Canadians believe the RCMP generally acts within their authority, although a significant minority believe the organization exceeds their authority at times. Six in ten (59 per cent) say the RCMP seldom exceeds its authority. Almost one in four (23 per cent), however, feel the RCMP sometimes oversteps its boundaries, and one in five (19 per cent) believe the RCMP often or always oversteps its authority. Tracking reveals an increase in the proportion of Canadians who feel the RCMP exceeds their authority at least some of the time; 42% currently feel the RCMP oversteps its authority, compared to 30% in 2019/20.
Three in ten respondents (29 per cent) indicate they have had contact with the RCMP in the past year. Of those who have, the plurality indicate their contact involved a traffic offence or an accident (23 per cent) or a criminal matter (19 per cent).
Those who indicated they had contact with the RCMP in the past year were then asked for their views on RCMP performance during this contact. Results are generally positive with more than eight in ten (85 per cent) agreeing that it was easy to get in touch with the RCMP, while similar proportions say RCMP personnel demonstrated professionalism (83 per cent), were courteous and respectful (83 per cent), and treated them fairly (82 per cent). Roughly three-quarters feel that RCMP personnel were knowledgeable and competent (77 per cent), delivered the service in a timely fashion (73 per cent), and provided all the information needed (73 per cent). Results are more mixed in terms of the RCMP going beyond minimum requirements in providing good service: 54 per cent feel the RCMP went beyond minimum service requirements, and 23 per cent disagree with this idea. These results have remained largely stable over the past few years.
Those who indicated they had had contact with the RCMP in the past year were also asked to rate their overall satisfaction with the service they received from the RCMP. Seven in ten (71 per cent) expressed satisfaction, and only 19 per cent were dissatisfied.
Conclusions
Overall, attitudes towards the RCMP are generally positive but have worsened over the past year. The vast majority of Canadians are satisfied with the RCMP's contribution to public safety and nearly all Canadians recognize the importance of its work. The RCMP also scores well in terms of upholding its core principles, particularly professionalism and integrity. However, across virtually all of the indicators examined, perceptions have deteriorated over the past year.
Survey results also reveal that Canadians hold mixed views when it comes to issues surrounding transparency and accountability. There are some doubts as to whether the RCMP provides Canadians with sufficient information regarding its work, and Canadians tend to disagree that the organization is transparent.
Another area of concern is sensitivity. Fewer than half of respondents believe that the RCMP is representative of the diverse communities it serves, and that RCMP personnel reflect the cultural diversity in their community. When the scope of the questions is narrowed to focus on specific groups, the RCMP elicits even less favourable reviews. Fewer than four in ten agree that the RCMP is sensitive to the needs of Canada's various cultures and groups, that the RCMP treats women fairly, that it is sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ2 community or that it is respectful to the cultural needs of Indigenous people. Of particular concern are the consistently poor ratings awarded by the LGBTQ2 community; on virtually every indicator, those who identify as LGBTQ2 provide significantly less favourable ratings than other Canadians.
Results also reveal that one-third of Canadians say they have had contact with the RCMP in the past year. Despite concerns about sensitivity and worsening views on the RCMP's performance in general, a clear majority of those who have had contact with the RCMP express satisfaction with the service received, and RCMP personnel score quite well across the performance indicators examined (e.g. courteousness, fairness, and professionalism).
1. Background and Methodology
1.1 Background and Objectives
The Organizational Priorities and Strategy Management unit of the RCMP is responsible for the development and implementation of an internal performance measurement system and for the organization-wide performance results reporting to the federal government. In an evidence-based environment, the RCMP requires sound metrics from the general public to assess performance and set targets for improved performance.
The RCMP has been conducting surveys of the Canadian public from 2003 to 2012 and from 2016 to 2021 to assess public opinions on quality of service, professionalism, sensitivity, community involvement, visibility, the value of partnerships, and communication.
Before 2017, this survey was conducted by telephone. However, due to the challenges and costs associated with telephone surveys, and to reach a broader audience, in the 2017/18 fiscal year, the RCMP started to conduct the survey using an online/telephone methodology with the same representativeness used in the previous (telephone only) samples.
1.2 Methodology
The current research also involved conducting an online/telephone survey. A total of 2,988 Canadians were surveyed in January 2021. As in previous surveys, the sample was drawn from across Canada and was weighted more heavily toward areas policed by the RCMP. The sample was stratified to ensure roughly equal representation from five regions (North, British Columbia, Prairies, Central, and Atlantic). We surveyed roughly 500 residents in the North, and about 600 in each of the other four regions.
The survey was conducted primarily online using our probability based online panel, Probit. However, to help with tracking previous survey results (which were conducted by telephone), and to ensure we could collect information from the North (which has a very limited number of panellists), we also conducted interviews by telephone. Below we provide more detail on the methodology associated with both the online and telephone components of the research.
Probit Panel (Online Sample)
We used our probability-based online panel, Probit, for the online completions. Probit is an online research panel that has been designed by Ekos to provide statistically representative data. Our panel offers complete coverage of the Canadian population (Internet, phone, cell phone), random recruitment (participants are recruited randomly, they do not opt themselves into our panel), and equal probability sampling. All respondents to our panel are recruited by telephone using random digit dialling, and their demographic information is confirmed by live interviewers.
The distribution of the recruitment process for our panel mirrors the actual population in Canada (as defined by Statistics Canada). As such, our panel can be considered representative of the general public (survey results from our online panel support confidence intervals and margin of error estimates, which is unique in Canada). The overall panel size is roughly 100,000 Canadian households. Random stratified samples are drawn from the panel database for individual research assignments.
Telephone Sample
Ekos relies on Survey Sample for the sample requirements of our telephone surveys. The software uses the most up-to-date directories as they become available and is updated quarterly. It samples by Random Digit Dial (RDD) methodology and checks its samples against published phone lists to divide the sample into "Directory Listed" (DL) and "Directory Not Listed" (DNL) RDD components. The flexibility of this software allows one to sample within specific regions or cities. One can sample according to population representativeness or stipulate stratification parameters, as required. Once the sample is determined for a specific survey, the numbers are imported into our Computer Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI) system and quotas are set for individual characteristics.
We completed 1,313 telephone interviews, and 1,675 cases were collected online. Results were weighted by region, gender, and age to ensure that the sample is representative of the Canadian population 18 years of age and older. Outlined below is the sample breakdown and margin of error (MOE) across mode and province/territory (please note the margins of error are for overall totals).
Margin of error by mode
Mode
Online
Phone
Total
Margin of error (±, 19 times out of 20)
Overall (phone and online)
n=1,675
n=1,313
n=2,988
1.8%
Telephone only
–
n=1,313
n=1,313
2.7%
Margin of error by province/territory
Province/Territory
Online
Phone
Total
Margin of error (±, 19 times out of 20)
British Columbia
n=439
n=198
n=637
3.9%
Alberta
n=273
n=71
n=344
5.3%
Saskatchewan
n=67
n=73
n=140
8.3%
Manitoba
n=73
n=66
n=139
8.3%
Ontario
n=260
n=94
n=354
5.2%
Quebec
n=147
n=100
n=247
6.2%
New Brunswick
n=117
n=55
n=172
7.5%
Nova Scotia
n=200
n=49
n=249
6.2%
Prince Edward Island
n=26
n=58
n=84
10.8%
Newfoundland
n=70
n=51
n=121
8.9%
Yukon
n=2
n=185
n=187
7.2%
Northwest Territories
n=1
n=163
n=164
7.7%
Nunavut
–
n=150
n=150
8.0%
Response Rate
The telephone response rate for this survey was 8.8 per cent. The response rate is calculated by dividing the in-scope responding (1,727) by the total (functional) sample (19,622) – see table below.
Response Rate
Description
Result
Total
Total Numbers Attempted
28,862
Invalid numbers
9,229
Blocked
291
Business
478
Duplicate
41
Invalid
8,419
Unresolved (U)
10,864
No answer
0
Callbacks
10,864
In-scope - Not responding (IS)
7,031
Household refusal
0
Respondent refusal
7,031
Selected respondent not available
0
Qualified respondent break-off
0
In-scope - Responding (R)
1,727
Language problem
371
Quota filled
16
Other disqualify
24
Completed interviews
1,313
Total (U + IS + R)
19,622
Response Rate (R divided by Total)
8.8%
The online response rate for this survey was 13.7 per cent. The online response rate is calculated as follows: a total of 12,292 email invitations were sent out, and 55 bounced back, for a total of 12,237 valid emails. A total of 1,675 cases were completed, so dividing 1,671 by 12,237 results in a response rate of 13.7 per cent.
Note to the Reader
The current survey was conducted using what was referred to in the RCMP's 2017/18 survey of the public as a "hybrid" methodology (online and telephone). Starting in 2018/19, this methodology was referred to as the "overall" results. Overall results are tracked to the 2017/18 survey, which also used an online and telephone methodology; however, given that previous surveys (before the 2017/18 fiscal year) were conducted solely by telephone, only telephone results are tracked for earlier years.
It should be noted that online results tend to be generally less positive than telephone results – this is due to a mode effect (social desirability bias) that is exhibited in all telephone/online surveys. Social desirability bias occurs when individuals provide different responses in the presence of an interviewer to appear in a more favourable light.
Schonlau et al. (2004)[2] studied mode effects between online and telephone surveys. This study found evidence of social desirability bias among telephone respondents for sensitive questions. In particular, this study found that telephone respondents were far more likely to rate their health as "excellent" as opposed to merely "very good".
Greene et al. (2008)[3] conducted a meta-analysis of four health related studies that contrasted the results of online and telephone studies. All of these studies revealed evidence of social desirability bias among telephone respondents.
Given the subject matter in the survey (views on a national symbol of Canada – the RCMP), it appears that telephone respondents did not want to be as critical of the RCMP as those who completed the survey through a self-administered, online survey (with no interviewer involved).
Please also note that most of the questions in this survey asked respondents to respond using five-point scales (e.g., where one means strongly disagree, five means strongly agree, and the midpoint, three, means neither disagree nor agree). Responses of one to two and four to five are aggregated when discussing the findings in this report.
2. Attitudes toward the RCMP
Please note that, throughout this report, overall results refer to findings from both the telephone and online interviews (n=2,988). Overall results are tracked to the 2017/18 fiscal year survey (which also used an online and telephone methodology); however, given that previous surveys (before the 2017/18 fiscal year) were conducted solely by telephone, only telephone results are tracked for earlier years. Also, please note that throughout the report any discussion of tracking is referring to the overall results tracking only, unless otherwise specified.
In this section, figures are based on valid responses only (in other words, the figures are adjusted to exclude those who skipped a given question).
2.1 Importance of RCMP's Contribution to Public Safety
Survey findings reveal that Canadians place a great deal of importance on the RCMP's contribution to public safety. Nine in ten respondents (90 per cent) assign a high degree of importance to the RCMP's role in keeping Canadians safe, and just six per cent say the RCMP's efforts to ensure public safety are of little or no importance.
Tracking suggests that the perceived importance of the RCMP's contribution to public safety is down somewhat over the past several years.
Chart 1: Importance of RCMP's contribution to public safety
Chart 1: Importance of RCMP's contribution to public safety - Text Version
This chart shows:
A horizontal stacked bar showing percentage of overall results for responses across three categories: unimportant, neither, and important.
A line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "How important is the RCMP's contribution to keeping Canadians safe?"
Respondents selected:
Overall:
Category "Unimportant (4-5)": 6%
Category "Neither (3)": 4%
Category "Important (1-2)": 90%
Percentage important (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (95%)
2018-2019 (94%)
2019-2020 (93%)
2020-2021 (90%)
Percentage important (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (96%)
2016-2017 (94%)
2017-2018 (95%)
2018-2019 (97%)
2019-2020 (97%)
2020-2021 (95%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,951, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,299, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
2.2 Satisfaction With RCMP's Contribution to Public Safety
Results further reveal that six in ten Canadians (62 per cent) are satisfied with how the RCMP fulfills its role in maintaining public safety, while one in four (24 per cent) are dissatisfied. One in seven (14 per cent) are neither satisfied nor dissatisfied.
Tracking reveals a ten-point drop in satisfaction with the RCMP's contribution to public safety over the past year (62 per cent, down from 72 per cent in 2019/20).
Satisfaction rises progressively with age (from 51 per cent among those under the age of 35 to 72 per cent among those aged 65 and over).
Satisfaction levels are higher in Atlantic Canada and BC (69 per cent and 68 per cent, respectively, compared to 62 per cent on average).
Those who identify as LGBTQ2 are less likely to say they are satisfied with the RCMP's contribution to public safety (35 per cent, compared to 62 per cent on average).
Chart 2: Satisfaction with RCMP's contribution to public safety
Chart 2: Satisfaction with RCMP's contribution to public safety - Text Version
This chart shows:
A horizontal stacked bar showing percentage of overall results for responses across three categories: dissatisfied, neither, and satisfied.
A line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "How satisfied are you with the RCMP's contribution to keeping Canadians safe?"
Respondents selected:
Overall:
Category "Dissatisfied (4-5)": 24%
Category "Neither (3)": 14%
Category "Satisfied (1-2)": 62%
Percentage satisfied (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (77%)
2018-2019 (77%)
2019-2020 (72%)
2020-2021 (62%)
Percentage satisfied (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (82%)
2016-2017 (80%)
2017-2018 (85%)
2018-2019 (83%)
2019-2020 (82%)
2020-2021 (78%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,893, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,280, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
2.3 Impact on Sense of Safety
Results reveal that the RCMP is seen as having a positive impact on the public's personal sense of safety. Almost six in ten respondents (57 per cent) agree that they feel safer because of the RCMP, and one in five (18 per cent) disagree with this notion.
However, tracking reveals a seven-point drop over the past year in the proportion of Canadians who say they feel safer (57 per cent, down from 64 per cent in 2019/20).
Agreement rises with age (from 48 per cent among those under the age of 35 to 66 per cent among those aged 65 and over).
Agreement is higher among those who live in Atlantic Canada (67 per cent, compared to 57 per cent nationally).
Agreement is noticeably lower among members of the LGBTQ2 community (33 per cent, compared to 57 per cent on average).
Chart 3: Impact of RCMP on sense of safety
Chart 3: Impact of RCMP on sense of safety - Text Version
This chart shows:
A horizontal stacked bar showing percentage of overall results for responses across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
A line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2016-2017 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked to rate: "I feel safer because of the RCMP?"
Respondents selected:
Overall:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 18%
Category "Neither (3)": 25%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 57%
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (68%)
2018-2019 (70%)
2019-2020 (64%)
2020-2021 (57%).
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2016-2017 (74%)
2017-2018 (76%)
2018-2019 (77%)
2019-2020 (76%)
2020-2021 (68%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,948, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,298, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
2.4 Core Values of the RCMP
Respondents were presented with a series of statements regarding the six core values of the RCMP (professionalism, integrity, accountability, honesty, respect, and compassion), as well as a question on objectivity, and asked for their views on the RCMP's performance in each of these areas. The results reveal generally positive impressions of the RCMP.
Almost seven in ten (65 per cent) agree that the RCMP demonstrates professionalism in its work, while six in ten say the RCMP operates with integrity (58 per cent). Half believe the RCMP personnel are honest (56 per cent), objective (55 per cent), compassionate (51 per cent), respectful (50 per cent) and that it is an accountable organization (50 per cent). Few respondents (between 17 and 32 per cent) disagree with any of these ideas.
However, as with other results, tracking reveals a general decrease in the proportion of Canadians with positive impressions of the RCMP. There is a 13-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who perceive the RCMP as an accountable organization (50 per cent, down from 63 per cent in 2019/20), an 11-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who believe the RCMP is an organization with integrity (58 per cent, down from 69 per cent in 2019/20), and the proportion who perceive that the RCMP treats people with respect (50 per cent, down from 61 per cent in 2019/20). A ten-point drop in the proportion who perceive RCMP as professional (65 per cent, down from 75 per cent in 2019/20), a nine-point drop in the proportion who perceive RCMP personnel as compassionate (51 per cent, down from 60 in 2019/20), and a six-point drop in the proportion who see RCMP personnel as honest (56 per cent, down from 62 per cent in 2019/20). Interestingly, there has been a 4-point increase in the proportion of Canadians who feel the RCMP makes decisions based on facts (55 per cent, up from 51 per cent in 2019/20.
Agreement with these statements generally increases with age. For instance, 39 per cent of those of those under the age of 35 agree that the RCMP is an accountable organization, a figure that rises to 59 per cent among those aged 65 and over.
Those with a high school education are consistently more likely to assign positive ratings to the RCMP. For example, 73 per cent described the RCMP as professional in nature, compared to 69 per cent of college graduates and 56 per cent of respondents with a university degree.
Those who identify as LGBTQ2 are consistently less likely to provide a positive appraisal of the RCMP (for instance, 34 per cent say the RCMP demonstrates professionalism, compared to 65 per cent on average, and 24 per cent say the RCMP treats people with respect, compared to 50 per cent on average).
Indigenous respondents are somewhat less likely to perceive the RCMP as honest (49 per cent versus 56 per cent), objective (47 per cent versus 55 per cent) or accountable (46 per cent versus 50 per cent).
Chart 4: Core values of the RCMP
Chart 4: Core values of the RCMP - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to seven statements across three categories:
Disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree."
Respondents selected:
The RCMP demonstrates professionalism in its work:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 17%
Category "Neither (3)": 18%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 65%
The RCMP is an organization with integrity:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 25%
Category "Neither (3)": 18%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 58%
RCMP personnel are honest:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 18%
Category "Neither (3)": 26%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 56%
The RCMP makes decisions based on facts:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 18%
Category "Neither (3)": 27%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 55%
RCMP personnel demonstrate compassion:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 22%
Category "Neither (3)": 27%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 51%
The RCMP treats people with respect:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 26%
Category "Neither (3)": 23%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 50%
The RCMP is an accountable organization:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 32%
Category "Neither (3)": 18%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 50%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,951, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 5: Core values: Professionalism
Chart 5: Core values: Professionalism - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP demonstrates professionalism in its work."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (79%)
2018-2019 (81%)
2019-2020 (75%)
2020-2021 (65%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (85%)
2016-2017 (85%)
2017-2018 (89%)
2018-2019 (88%)
2019-2020 (83%)
2020-2021 (78%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,913, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,286, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 6: Core values: Integrity
Chart 6: Core values: Integrity - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is an organization with integrity."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (69%)
2018-2019 (72%)
2019-2020 (69%)
2020-2021 (58%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (84%)
2016-2017 (79%)
2017-2018 (84%)
2018-2019 (87%)
2019-2020 (86%)
2020-2021 (73%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,925, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,282, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 7: Core values: Honesty
Chart 7: Core values: Honesty - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: RCMP personnel are honest."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (66%)
2018-2019 (69%)
2019-2020 (62%)
2020-2021 (56%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (78%)
2016-2017 (72%)
2017-2018 (79%)
2018-2019 (82%)
2019-2020 (79%)
2020-2021 (74%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,852, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,255, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 8: Core values: Objectivity
Chart 8: Core values: Objectivity - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2019-2020 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP makes decisions based on facts."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2019-2020 (51%)
2020-2021 (55%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2019-2020 (69%)
2020-2021 (75%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,599, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,175, margin of error ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 9: Core values: Compassion
Chart 9: Core values: Compassion - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: RCMP personnel demonstrate compassion."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (60%)
2018-2019 (63%)
2019-2020 (60%)
2020-2021 (51%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (76%)
2016-2017 (73%)
2017-2018 (77%)
2018-2019 (80%)
2019-2020 (75%)
2020-2021 (72%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,811, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,232, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 10: Core values: Respect
Chart 10: Core values: Respect - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP treats people with respect*."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (69%)
2018-2019 (70%)
2019-2020 (61%)
2020-2021 (50%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (84%)
2016-2017 (82%)
2017-2018 (85%)
2018-2019 (85%)
2019-2020 (80%)
2020-2021 (72%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,868, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,265, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 11: Core values: Accountability
Chart 11: Core values: Accountability - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is an accountable organization."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (65%)
2018-2019 (64%)
2019-2020 (63%)
2020-2021 (50%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (80%)
2016-2017 (76%)
2017-2018 (84%)
2018-2019 (82%)
2019-2020 (82%)
2020-2021 (69%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,903, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,272, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
2.5 Views of the RCMP (General)
Respondents were presented with four general statements about the RCMP and asked to rate the extent to which they agree or disagree with each one. Once again, results reveal generally positive overall impressions of the RCMP (although results also reveal a decrease in the proportion who express positive views of the RCMP). Seven in ten Canadians (71 per cent) are satisfied with the RCMP's efforts to provide services in both official languages. Six in ten agree that the RCMP prioritizes quality service (62 per cent), and express trust and confidence in the RCMP (60 per cent). Relatively few respondents (between 6 and 23 per cent) disagree with these statements.
However, results also suggest the public perceive gaps in the RCMP's service offerings. About four in ten (39 per cent) say the RCMP provides the same quality of service to all citizens, and more than four in ten (44 per cent) disagree with this statement.
Tracking reveals an 11-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who agree that the RCMP provides the same quality of service to all citizens (39 per cent, down from 50 per cent in 2019/20). Results also reveal a nine-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who agree that the RCMP prioritizes quality service (62 per cent, down from 71 per cent in 2019/20) and in the proportion who express trust and confidence in the RCMP (60 per cent, down from 69 in 2019/20). The proportion of Canadians who agree that the RCMP prioritizes bilingual services has remained largely stable over the past year.
Belief that the RCMP places emphasis on providing quality service rises with age (from 52 per cent among those under the age of 35 to 70 per cent among those aged 65 and over). Similarly, the likelihood of expressing trust and confidence in the RCMP also rises with age (from 49 per cent among those under 35 years of age to 71 per cent among those 65 and over). Those aged 65 and over are also more likely to agree the RCMP offers consistent service to all citizens (45 per cent, compared to 33 per cent among those under the age of 35).
Those with a high school education are more likely to agree with most of these statements. For example, 67 per cent say the RCMP is consistent in the quality of service it provides, compared to 64 per cent of college graduates and 57 per cent of those who hold university degrees.
Those in the LGBTQ2 community express significantly less favourable views across the board (for example, just 17 per cent say the RCMP offers consistent service, compared to 39 per cent on average, and only 30 per cent express trust and confidence in the RCMP, compared to 60 per cent on average).
Indigenous respondents also provided less favourable feedback when it came to the trust they place in the RCMP (54 per cent versus 60 per cent).
Chart 12: Views of the RCMP (general)
Chart 12: Views of the RCMP (general) - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to four statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree."
Respondents selected:
The RCMP places emphasis on providing services in the official language of my choice, English or French:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 6%
Category "Neither (3)": 24%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 71%
The RCMP places an emphasis on providing quality service to the public:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 17%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 62%
I have trust and confidence in the RCMP:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 23%
Category "Neither (3)": 18%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 60%
The RCMP provides the same quality of service to all citizens:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 44%
Category "Neither (3)": 17%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 39%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,951, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 13: General views: Availability of services in English & French
Chart 13: General views: Availability of services in English and French - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP places emphasis on providing services in the official language of my choice, English or French."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (78%)
2018-2019 (80%)
2019-2020 (74%)
2020-2021 (71%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (90%)
2016-2017 (89%)
2017-2018 (84%)
2018-2019 (91%)
2019-2020 (85%)
2020-2021 (85%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,587, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,179, margin of error ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 14: General views: Emphasis on quality service
Chart 14: General views: Emphasis on quality service - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP places emphasis on providing quality service to the public."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (75%)
2018-2019 (75%)
2019-2020 (71%)
2020-2021 (62%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (86%)
2016-2017 (83%)
2017-2018 (89%)
2018-2019 (89%)
2019-2020 (84%)
2020-2021 (79%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,880, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,265, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 15: General views: Trust in the RCMP
Chart 15: General views: Trust in the RCMP - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: I have trust and confidence in the RCMP."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (74%)
2018-2019 (74%)
2019-2020 (69%)
2020-2021 (60%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (84%)
2016-2017 (78%)
2017-2018 (88%)
2018-2019 (88%)
2019-2020 (86%)
2020-2021 (77%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,937, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,293, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 16: General views: Quality of service across groups
Chart 16: General views: Quality of service across groups - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to two statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP provides the same quality of service to all citizens."
Respondents selected:
Period 2020-2021:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 44%
Category "Neither (3)": 17%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 39%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,853, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Period 2019-2020:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 32%
Category "Neither (3)": 19%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 50%
Base (overall): Canadians; Jan. 9- Feb. 27, 2020, n=2,988, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
2.6 Views of the RCMP (Leadership)
Canadians express somewhat mixed views on RCMP leadership: 44 per cent rate the RCMP's local leaders as effective (compared to 20 per cent who disagree), and slightly fewer (43 per cent) offer a positive appraisal of its national leaders (versus 31 per cent who disagree).
Tracking suggests that, as with many other issues, trust in the RCMP's national leaders has eroded somewhat over the past year (43 per cent, compared to 51 per cent in 2019/20). The proportion of Canadians who say they trust the RCMP's local leaders has remained stable over the past year.
Those aged 65 and over are more likely to express confidence in both the RCMP's national leaders (51 per cent, compared to 43 per cent on average) and its local leaders (53 per cent versus 44 per cent).
Those with a high school education are more likely to assign favourable ratings to RCMP's leadership at both the national level (53 per cent, compared to 43 per cent on average) and the local level (54 per cent versus 44 per cent).
Residents of Atlantic Canada express a higher degree of confidence in the RCMP's local leadership (55 per cent versus 44 per cent).
Chart 17: Views of the RCMP (leadership)
Chart 17: Views of the RCMP (leadership) - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to two statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree."
Respondents selected:
The RCMP has effective local leaders:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 20%
Category "Neither (3)": 37%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 44%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,382, margin of error ± 2.0%, 19 times out of 20
The RCMP has effective national leaders:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 31%
Category "Neither (3)": 25%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 43%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,560, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 18: Leadership: Effectiveness of local leaders
Chart 18: Leadership: Effectiveness of local leaders - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP has effective local leaders."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (51%)
2018-2019 (54%)
2019-2020 (45%)
2020-2021 (44%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,382, margin of error ± 2.0%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 19: Leadership: Effectiveness of national leaders
Chart 19: Leadership: Effectiveness of national leaders - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP has effective national leaders."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (48%)
2018-2019 (57%)
2019-2020 (51%)
2020-2021 (43%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,560, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
2.7 Views of the RCMP (Transparency)
The RCMP also receives mixed reviews when it comes to issues related to innovation and transparency. Fewer than four in ten respondents (38 per cent) are satisfied with the level of information that the RCMP provides about its work (virtually the same proportion – 39 per cent – as those who express dissatisfaction in this area). A similar proportion (36 per cent) agree that the RCMP is a forward-looking and innovative organization (while the same proportion – 36 per cent – disagree).
Findings also reveal that almost half of Canadians (47 per cent) disagree with the idea that the RCMP is an open and transparent organization (although it is possible that Canadians may see the RCMP as appropriately not transparent, given the type of information they hold – e.g., criminal records, witness addresses, information before the courts, investigative techniques, etc.).
Tracking reveals a ten-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who consider the RCMP a forward-looking, innovative organization (36 per cent, down from 46 per cent in 2019/20) and a six-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who consider that the RCMP provides adequate information about its work (38 per cent, compared to 44 per cent in 2019/20), and among those who agree the RCMP is an open and transparent organization (30 per cent, down from 36 per cent in 2019/20).
Those aged 65 and over are more apt to agree that the RCMP is a forward-looking, open organization (44 per cent, compared to 36 per cent on average).
The likelihood of expressing favourable views of the RCMP in terms of its transparency declines with educational attainment. For example, 36 per cent of high school educated respondents deem the RCMP an open and transparent organization, a figure that declines to just 25 per cent among university graduates.
Regionally, those who reside in Atlantic Canada are more likely to say that the RCMP is a forward-looking, innovative organization (43 per cent, compared to 36 per cent on average).
Those in the LGBTQ2 community consistently gave the RCMP poorer marks on issues related to transparency. For example, 15 per cent believe the RCMP to be open and transparent, compared to 30 per cent on average.
Chart 20: Views of the RCMP (transparency)
Chart 20: Views of the RCMP (transparency) - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to three statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree."
Respondents selected:
The RCMP provides Canadians with adequate information about its work:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 39%
Category "Neither (3)": 23%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 38%
The RCMP is a forward-looking, innovative organization:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 36%
Category "Neither (3)": 27%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 36%
The RCMP is an open and transparent organization:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 47%
Category "Neither (3)": 23%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 30%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,951, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 21: Transparency: Communication with public
Chart 21: Transparency: Communication with public - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP provides Canadians with adequate information about its work."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (41%)
2018-2019 (41%)
2019-2020 (44%)
2020-2021 (38%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (62%)
2016-2017 (52%)
2017-2018 (55%)
2018-2019 (56%)
2019-2020 (63%)
2020-2021 (56%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,820, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,232, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 22: Transparency: Innovation
Chart 22: Transparency: Innovation - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2016-2017 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is a forward-looking, innovative organization."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (44%)
2018-2019 (45%)
2019-2020 (46%)
2020-2021 (36%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2016-2017 (59%)
2017-2018 (64%)
2018-2019 (62%)
2019-2020 (66%)
2020-2021 (55%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,665, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,172, margin of error ± 2.6%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 23: Transparency: Openness
Chart 23: Transparency: Openness - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2016-2017 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is an open and transparent organization."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (38%)
2018-2019 (38%)
2019-2020 (36%)
2020-2021 (30%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2016-2017 (45%)
2017-2018 (52%)
2018-2019 (56%)
2019-2020 (54%)
2020-2021 (47%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,809, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,233, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
2.8 Views of the RCMP (Sensitivity)
The RCMP receives fairly low, and worsening, marks on indicators related to sensitivity. Fewer than half of respondents believe that the RCMP is representative of the diverse communities it serves (45 per cent, compared to 33 per cent who disagree), and that RCMP personnel reflect the cultural diversity in their community (44 per cent, compared to 28 per cent who disagree).
When the scope of the questions is narrowed to focus on specific groups, the RCMP elicits even less favourable reviews. Fewer than four in ten agree that the RCMP is sensitive to the needs of Canada's various cultures and groups (39 per cent, compared to 37 per cent who disagree), that the RCMP treats women fairly (39 per cent, compared to 41 per cent who disagree), that it is sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ2 community (35 per cent versus 32 per cent, while the remaining 33 per cent neither agree nor disagree, suggesting a fair degree of uncertainty on the matter) or that it is respectful to the cultural needs of Indigenous people (34 per cent versus 45 per cent who disagree).
Tracking reveals a decrease in agreement over the past year across all of these issues. For instance, there is a 13-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who believe the RCMP is sensitive to the needs of different cultures and groups (39 per cent, compared to 52 per cent in 2019/20), as well as an 11-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who agree the RCMP is representative of the diverse Canadian communities it serves (45 per cent, down from 56 per cent in 2019/20), and the proportion who agree the RCMP is respectful to the cultural needs of Indigenous people (34 per cent, down from 45 per cent in 2019/20).
When it comes to the broader indicators of sensitivity, the likelihood of offering a positive appraisal of the RCMP rises with age. For example, 29 per cent of those under the age of 35 believe the RCMP is sensitive to the needs of different cultures and groups, compared to 44 per cent of those aged 65 and over.
Agreement with these statements consistently declines with educational attainment. For example, 67 per cent of high school graduates feel the RCMP is sensitive to varying cultural needs, compared to 45 per cent of university graduates.
LGBTQ2 respondents are significantly less likely to agree with these statements. Of particular note, just 13 per cent agree that the RCMP is sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ2 community, compared to 35 per cent on average.
Indigenous respondents are somewhat more likely to indicate that they agree that the RCMP is respectful of Indigenous cultural needs (36 per cent, compared to 34 per cent on average).
Chart 24: Views of the RCMP (sensitivity)
Chart 24: Views of the RCMP (sensitivity) - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to six statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree."
Respondents selected:
The RCMP is representative of the diverse Canadian communities it serves:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 33%
Category "Neither (3)": 22%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 45%
RCMP personnel reflect the cultural diversity in my community:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 28%
Category "Neither (3)": 28%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 44%
The RCMP is sensitive to the needs of different cultures and groups:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 37%
Category "Neither (3)": 24%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 39%
The RCMP treats women fairly:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 41%
Category "Neither (3)": 19%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 39%
The RCMP is sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ2 community:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 32%
Category "Neither (3)": 33%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 35%
The RCMP is respectful to the cultural needs of Indigenous people:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 45%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 34%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,951, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 25: Sensitivity: Representativeness
Chart 25: Sensitivity: Representativeness - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2018-2019 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is representative of the diverse Canadian communities it serves."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2018-2019 (60%)
2019-2020 (56%)
2020-2021 (45%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,754, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 26: Sensitivity: Sensitivity to the needs of different groups
Chart 26: Sensitivity: Sensitivity to the needs of different groups - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is sensitive to the needs of different cultures and groups."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (56%)
2018-2019 (58%)
2019-2020 (52%)
2020-2021 (39%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (77%)
2016-2017 (68%)
2017-2018 (75%)
2018-2019 (74%)
2019-2020 (71%)
2020-2021 (57%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,754, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,223, margin of error ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 27: Sensitivity: Treatment of women
Chart 27: Sensitivity: Treatment of women - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP treats women fairly."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (43%)
2018-2019 (49%)
2019-2020 (47%)
2020-2021 (39%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (66%)
2016-2017 (62%)
2017-2018 (59%)
2018-2019 (65%)
2019-2020 (62%)
2020-2021 (55%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,732, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,195, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 28: Sensitivity: Sensitivity to LGBTQ2 needs
Chart 28: Sensitivity: Sensitivity to LGBTQ2 needs - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2018-2019 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ2 community."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2018-2019 (46%)
2019-2020 (43%)
2020-2021 (35%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,308, margin of error ± 2.0%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 29: Sensitivity: Sensitivity to Indigenous cultural needs
Chart 29: Sensitivity: Sensitivity to Indigenous cultural needs - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2018-2019 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is respectful to the cultural needs of Indigenous people."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2018-2019 (49%)
2019-2020 (45%)
2020-2021 (34%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,700, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
2.9 Views of the RCMP (Relationship With RCMP)
Despite concerns about sensitivity and worsening views on the RCMP's performance in general, results suggest that the RCMP maintains a widely positive relationship with the public. The vast majority of respondents (82 per cent) say they would help the RCMP if asked, while almost eight in ten (77 per cent) believe they have a moral obligation to follow police orders. Seven in ten (67 per cent) also say they generally support the RCMP's actions. Half agree that the RCMP is dealing with things that matter to their community (50 per cent) and would encourage friends and family to consider the RCMP as a career path (50 per cent).
However, as with many other issues, tracking reveals a decline over the past years across all these issues. For instance, there has been an eight-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who agree the RCMP is dealing with the things that matter to people in their community (50 per cent, down from 58 per cent in 2019/20), a six-point drop in the proportion who would encourage friends and family members to apply to RCMP (50 per cent, compared to 56 per cent in 2019/20) and a five-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who would help the RCMP if asked (82 per cent, down from 87 in the last year) and who generally support how the RCMP usually acts (67 per cent, compared to 72 per cent in 2019/20).
Women are more apt to express willingness to help the RCMP if asked (84 per cent, compared to 80% of men) and to express a sense of duty when it comes to following police orders (81 per cent, compared to 74 per cent of men).
Agreement with these statements is positively correlated with age. For example, 64 per cent of those under the age of 35 feel morally bound to follow police orders, a figure that rises to 88 per cent among those aged 65 and over.
High school graduates are more likely to agree that the RCMP deals with matters that are important to their community (56 per cent, compared to 50 per cent on average). The likelihood of encouraging friends and family to apply to the RCMP declines with educational attainment (from 58 per cent among high school graduates to 41 per cent among those with university degrees).
Members of Canada's LGBTQ2 and Indigenous communities consistently express a dimmer view of their relationship with the RCMP (for example, just 51 per cent of LGBTQ2 respondents and 64 per cent of Indigenous respondents convey a sense of obligation to follow police orders, compared to 77 per cent on average). Those with disabilities are less apt to say the RCMP focuses on matters that directly impact their communities (42 per cent).
Chart 30: Tracking relationship with RCMP
Chart 30: Tracking relationship with RCMP - Text Version
This chart shows five double bars. Each double bar represents one statement the respondents agreed with and shows the difference in overall results for two fiscal years: 2019-2020 and 2020-2021.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree."
Respondents selected:
I would help the RCMP if asked:
2020-2021 (82%)
2019-2020 (87%)
I feel a moral duty to follow police orders:
2020-2021 (77%)
2019-2020 (79%)
I generally support how the RCMP usually acts:
2020-2021 (67%)
2019-2020 (72%)
The RCMP is dealing with the things that matter to people in this community:
2020-2021 (50%)
2019-2020 (58%)
I would encourage friends and family members to apply to the RCMP:
2020-2021 (50%)
2019-2020 (56%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,951, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
2.10 Views of the RCMP (Service)
Outside of Ontario and Quebec, where residents deal primarily with their province's respective police forces rather than the RCMP, respondents rate the RCMP quite favourably in terms of visibility. Overall, half (51 per cent) agree that RCMP personnel have a visible presence in their community; however, this figure jumps to 74 per cent outside of Central Canada.
These results have remained largely stable over the past few years.
High school graduates are somewhat more likely to agree that the RCMP is visibly present in their community (54 per cent, compared to 51 per cent on average).
Regionally, the proportion of Canadians who agree that the RCMP is visible in their community is much higher in Northern Canada (93 per cent), British Columbia (80 per cent), Atlantic Canada (78 per cent), and the Prairies (68 per cent) compared to Central Canada (33 per cent).
Chart 31: Views of the RCMP (service) by region
Chart 31: Views of the RCMP (service) by region - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to three statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP personnel have a visible presence in my community/province/territory."
Respondents selected:
National:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 32%
Category "Neither (3)": 17%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 51%
Central Canada:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 46%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 33%
Rest of Canada:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 14%
Category "Neither (3)": 12%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 74%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,838, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 32: Service: Service
Chart 32: Service: Service - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP personnel have a visible presence in my community/province/territory."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (52%)
2018-2019 (53%)
2019-2020 (49%)
2020-2021 (51%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (64%)
2016-2017 (61%)
2017-2018 (59%)
2018-2019 (61%)
2019-2020 (58%)
2020-2021 (62%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,838, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,256, margin of error ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20
2.11 Views of the RCMP (Responsiveness)
Turning to views on responsiveness, results reveal that Canadians hold generally positive views of the RCMP in this area. More than half (54 per cent) agree that it is quick to respond to calls for assistance, and four in ten (44 per cent) agree that the RCMP rapidly adapts to new and emerging priorities. Fewer than three in ten disagree with either of these statements.
Tracking reveals that the proportion of Canadians who believe that the RCMP is effective at responding quickly to calls for assistance has declined by twelve points since 2018/19; however, the question was phrased differently for the most recent surveys, and this shift may reflect changes in the wording rather than changes in public attitudes.
Those aged 65 and over are more apt to agree that the RCMP responds to calls for assistance quickly (63 per cent versus 54 per cent) and that the RCMP rapidly adapts to emerging priorities (53 per cent, compared to 44 per cent on average)
Agreement with both statements declines with educational attainment. For instance, 62 per cent of respondents with a high school level education believe the RCMP is effective at responding quickly to calls for assistance, compared to 50 per cent of university graduates.
Atlantic Canadians are more likely to say the RCMP rapidly adapts to new and emerging priorities (48 per cent, compared to 44 per cent on average).
Those in the LGBTQ2 community rate the RCMP more poorly along both measures; 20 per cent say the RCMP is keeping up with evolving priorities (compared to 44 per cent on average) and 43 per cent believe the organization responds to calls in a timely manner (versus 54 per cent).
Indigenous respondents are less likely to express positive views on the RCMP's response time (51 per cent, compared to 54 per cent on average), while visible minorities are less apt to agree that the RCMP stays on top of emerging priorities (35 per cent versus 44 per cent).
Chart 33: Views of the RCMP (responsiveness)
Chart 33: Views of the RCMP (responsiveness) - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to two statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree."
Respondents selected:
The RCMP is effective at responding quickly to calls for assistance:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 17%
Category "Neither (3)": 29%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 54%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,465, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
The RCMP rapidly adapts to new and emerging priorities:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 29%
Category "Neither (3)": 27%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 44%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,536, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 34: Responsiveness: Effectiveness of response
Chart 34: Responsiveness: Effectiveness of response - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effective at responding quickly to calls for assistance *."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (64%)
2018-2019 (66%)
2019-2020 (58%)
2020-2021 (54%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,465, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
2.12 Impact of the RCMP
Results also reveal generally positive impressions of the impact of the RCMP on Canadians, although findings also suggest room for improvement in some areas, particularly Indigenous matters. Roughly seven in ten (69 per cent) express confidence in the RCMP's ability to respond to national security threats effectively. More than six in ten agree the RCMP effectively diminishes the threat of organized crime (66 per cent), handles threats to passenger aircraft (64 per cent), mitigates the impact of serious crime (63 per cent), resolves crimes where violence is involved (63 per cent), and provides an adequate response to border threats (63 per cent), while slightly fewer believe the RCMP is effective at reducing the production, sale and distribution of illegal drugs (60 per cent), and countering radicalization to violent extremism (57 per cent). More than half believe the RCMP is effectively responding to cybercrime threats (55 per cent), and improving traffic safety (53 per cent). Slightly fewer agree that the RCMP is successfully addressing youth crime (51 per cent), and lessening the impact of economic crime (51 per cent).
However, fewer than half are satisfied with the RCMP's attempts to combat online scams (47 per cent), its contribution to making Canadians more informed and resilient (43 per cent), and its efforts in fostering safer Indigenous communities (39 per cent). Only three in ten (34 per cent) say the RCMP is advancing reconciliation with Canada's Indigenous peoples.
Overall results reveal a decrease in the proportion of Canadians expressing positive views on the impact of the RCMP in many areas. There has been a nine-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who agree the RCMP is advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples (34 per cent, down from 43 per cent in 2019/20), and an eight-point drop in the proportion who perceive the RCMP is contributing to safer Indigenous communities (39 per cent, compared to 47 per cent in 2019/20). Findings reveal a seven-point drop in the proportion of Canadians who agree that the RCMP is effectively responding to threats to national security (69 percent, down from 76 per cent in 2019/20) and contributing to more informed and resilient Canadians (43 per cent, compared to 50 per cent in 2019/20). Results also indicate a six-point drop in the proportion that believe the organization is successfully addressing youth crime (51 per cent, down from 57 per cent in 2019/20). Other results are largely on par with those found last year.[4]
Compared to men, women convey a greater sense of confidence in the RCMP on most of the indicators tested, particularly when it comes to national security (73 per cent, compared to 66 per cent of men), border security (67 per cent, compared to 60 per cent of men), and reducing the production, sale and distribution of illegal drugs (64 per cent versus 57 per cent).
Those aged 65 and over are consistently more likely to express a positive opinion of the impact of the RCMP's services. For example, 61 per cent agree that the RCMP is effective at reducing the overall impact of economic crime, compared to 51 per cent on average.
On most of the indicators tested, those with a high school education are more likely to provide a positive assessment of the RCMP. For example, 58 per cent agree that the RCMP is effectively addressing online scams, compared to 47 per cent on average.
Regionally, British Columbia residents convey a less favourable outlook on most of the items tested (for instance, 52 per cent believe the RCMP adequately responds to reducing organized crime, compared to 66 per cent on average).
Members of the LGBTQ2 community and, to a lesser extent, those who identify as Indigenous are consistently less likely to agree with these statements. For instance, 31 per cent of LGBTQ2 respondents and 43 per cent of Indigenous respondents believe the organization is effectively responding to radicalization to violent extremism, compared to 57 per cent on average.
Chart 35: Impact of the RCMP
Chart 35: Impact of the RCMP - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to sixteen statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree. The RCMP is…"
Respondents selected:
Effectively responding to threats to national security:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 13%
Category "Neither (3)": 18%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 69%
Reducing the threat and impact of organized crime:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 15%
Category "Neither (3)": 19%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 66%
Effectively responding to threats to Canadian passenger aircraft:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 6%
Category "Neither (3)": 29%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 64%
Reducing the threat and impact of serious crime:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 18%
Category "Neither (3)": 20%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 63%
Effective at resolving crimes where violence is involved:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 15%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 63%
Effectively responding to threats at the border between the ports of entry:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 17%
Category "Neither (3)": 20%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 63%
Reducing the production, sale and distribution of illegal drugs:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 19%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 60%
Effectively responding to radicalization to violent extremism:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 22%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 57%
Effectively responding to cybercrime threats:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 20%
Category "Neither (3)": 24%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 55%
Contributing to traffic safety in my province or territory:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 27%
Category "Neither (3)": 20%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 53%
Addressing youth involvement in crime as both victims and offenders:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 18%
Category "Neither (3)": 30%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 51%
Reducing the impact of economic crime:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 22%
Category "Neither (3)": 26%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 51%
Effectively addressing online scams:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 29%
Category "Neither (3)": 24%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 47%
Contributing to more informed and resilient Canadians:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 27%
Category "Neither (3)": 30%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 43%
Contributing to safer Indigenous communities:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 40%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 39%
Advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples of Canada:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 41%
Category "Neither (3)": 24%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 34%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,951, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 36: Impact: National security
Chart 36: Impact: National security - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effectively responding to threats to national security."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (73%)
2018-2019 (75%)
2019-2020 (76%)
2020-2021 (69%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (88%)
2016-2017 (81%)
2017-2018 (83%)
2018-2019 (86%)
2019-2020 (88%)
2020-2021 (83%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,498, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,121, margin of error ± 2.6%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 37: Impact: Organized crime
Chart 37: Impact: Organized crime - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: Reducing the threat and impact of organized crime."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (69%)
2018-2019 (69%)
2019-2020 (69%)
2020-2021 (66%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (81%)
2016-2017 (79%)
2017-2018 (77%)
2018-2019 (79%)
2019-2020 (82%)
2020-2021 (79%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,633, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,184, margin of error ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 38: Impact: Threats to passenger aircraft
Chart 38: Impact: Threats to passenger aircraft - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effectively responding to threats to Canadian passenger aircraft."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (67%)
2018-2019 (69%)
2019-2020 (69%)
2020-2021 (64%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,129, margin of error ± 2.1%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 39: Impact: Serious crimes
Chart 39: Impact: Serious crimes - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is reducing the threat and impact of serious crime, such as murder, sexual assault, robbery, and arson."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (63%)
2018-2019 (64%)
2019-2020 (62%)
2020-2021 (63%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (84%)
2016-2017 (77%)
2017-2018 (77%)
2018-2019 (75%)
2019-2020 (77%)
2020-2021 (77%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,670, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,208, margin of error ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 40: Impact: Violent crimes
Chart 40: Impact: Violent crimes - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to two statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effective at resolving crimes where violence is involved."
Respondents selected:
2020-2021:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 15%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 63%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,654, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
2019-2020:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 12%
Category "Neither (3)": 21%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 67%
Base (overall): Canadians; Jan. 9- Feb. 27, 2020, n=2,988, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 41: Impact: Border security
Chart 41: Impact: Border security - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2018-2019 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effectively responding to threats at the border between the ports of entry."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2018-2019 (67%)
2019-2020 (65%)
2020-2021 (63%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,395, margin of error ± 2.0%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 42: Impact: Production, sale and distribution of illegal drugs
Chart 42: Impact: Production, sale and distribution of illegal drugs - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is reducing the production, sale and distribution of illegal drugs."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (63%)
2018-2019 (63%)
2019-2020 (61%)
2020-2021 (60%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,664, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 43: Impact: Radicalization
Chart 43: Impact: Radicalization - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effectively responding to radicalization to violent extremism *."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (60%)
2018-2019 (62%)
2019-2020 (62%)
2020-2021 (57%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,430, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 44: Impact: Cybercrime threats
Chart 44: Impact: Cybercrime threats - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effectively responding to cybercrime threats."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (61%)
2018-2019 (60%)
2019-2020 (60%)
2020-2021 (55%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,370, margin of error ± 2.0%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 45: Impact: Traffic safety
Chart 45: Impact: Traffic safety - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to two statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is contributing to traffic safety in my province or territory."
Respondents selected:
2020-2021:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 27%
Category "Neither (3)": 20%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 53%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,661, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
2019-2020:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 27%
Category "Neither (3)": 18%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 55%
Base (overall): Canadians; Jan. 9- Feb. 27, 2020, n=2,988, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 46: Impact: Youth involvement in crime
Chart 46: Impact: Youth involvement in crime - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is addressing youth involvement in crime as both victims and offenders.
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (59%)
2018-2019 (59%)
2019-2020 (57%)
2020-2021 (51%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (73%)
2016-2017 (67%)
2017-2018 (72%)
2018-2019 (71%)
2019-2020 (70%)
2020-2021 (70%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,273, margin of error ± 2.0%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,096, margin of error ± 2.2%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 47: Impact: Economic crime
Chart 47: Impact: Economic crime - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is reducing the impact of economic crime*."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (62%)
2018-2019 (60%)
2019-2020 (55%)
2020-2021 (51%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (77%)
2016-2017 (72%)
2017-2018 (74%)
2018-2019 (72%)
2019-2020 (71%)
2020-2021 (72%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,431, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,114, margin of error ± 2.2%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 48: Impact: Online scams
Chart 48: Impact: Online scams - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to two statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is effectively addressing online scams."
Respondents selected:
2020-2021:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 29%
Category "Neither (3)": 24%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 47%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,497, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
2019-2020:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 29%
Category "Neither (3)": 22%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 49%
Base (overall): Canadians; Jan. 9- Feb. 27, 2020, n=2,988, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 49: Impact: Resilience of Canadians
Chart 49: Impact: Resilience of Canadians - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2017-2018 to 2020-2021, for overall results.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: Is contributing to more informed and resilient Canadians."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (52%)
2018-2019 (50%)
2019-2020 (50%)
2020-2021 (43%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,552, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 50: Impact: Safety of Indigenous communities
Chart 50: Impact: Safety of Indigenous communities - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is contributing to safer Indigenous communities."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (49%)
2018-2019 (51%)
2019-2020 (47%)
2020-2021 (39%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (66%)
2016-2017 (54%)
2017-2018 (65%)
2018-2019 (66%)
2019-2020 (65%)
2020-2021 (59%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,589, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,178, margin of error ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 51: Impact: Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples
Chart 51: Impact: Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall results for responses to two statements across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: The RCMP is advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples of Canada."
Respondents selected:
2020-2021:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 41%
Category "Neither (3)": 24%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 34%
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,496, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
2019-2020:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 28%
Category "Neither (3)": 29%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 43%
Base (overall): Canadians; Jan. 9- Feb. 27, 2020, n=2,988, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
2.13 Awareness of RCMP's International Activities
Results suggest broad awareness of the RCMP's international undertakings. Seven in ten (68 per cent) say they are aware that the RCMP participates in activities such as peacekeeping and training foreign police, and only one in six (17 per cent) say they are not aware that the RCMP engages in these activities. Tracking suggests a modest erosion in the public's familiarity with the RCMP's presence on the international stage.
Awareness of the RCMP's international engagements rises progressively with age (from 54 per cent among those under the age of 35 to 82 per cent of those aged 65 and over) and declines with educational attainment (from 70 per cent among high school educated to 66 per cent among university graduates).
Awareness is higher in Atlantic Canada (76 per cent, compared to 68 per cent on average).
LGBTQ2 respondents are comparatively less familiar with these activities (52 per cent, compared to 68 per cent on average).
Chart 52: Awareness of RCMP's international activities
Chart 52: Awareness of RCMP's international activities - Text Version
This chart shows:
A horizontal stacked bar showing percentage of overall results for responses across three categories: disagree, neither, and agree.
A line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2016-2017 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall results. Second line represents results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree: I am aware that the RCMP participates in a variety of international activities, such as peacekeeping missions and offering training to foreign police?"
Respondents selected:
Overall:
Category "Disagree (4-5)": 17%
Category "Neither (3)": 14%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 68%
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (71%)
2018-2019 (70%)
2019-2020 (73%)
2020-2021 (68%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2016-2017 (73%)
2017-2018 (77%)
2018-2019 (75%)
2019-2020 (81%)
2020-2021 (78%);
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,543, margin of error ± 1.9%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,137, margin of error ± 2.9%, 19 times out of 20
2.14 Incidence of the RCMP Exceeding Their Authority
Results reveal that most Canadians believe the RCMP generally acts within their authority, although a significant minority believe the organization exceeds their authority at times. Six in ten (59 per cent) say the RCMP seldom exceeds its authority (including 32 per cent who say never or almost never). Almost one in four (23 per cent), however, feel the RCMP sometimes oversteps its boundaries, and one in five (19 per cent) believe the RCMP often or always oversteps its authority.
Tracking reveals an increase in the proportion of Canadians who feel the RCMP exceeds their authority; 42 per cent currently feel the RCMP oversteps its authority, compared to 30 per cent in 2019/20.
Those aged younger than 35 are more apt to agree that the RCMP exceeds their authority almost always or most of the time (27 per cent).
Those who identify as Indigenous (34 per cent), visible minorities (34 per cent), and those in the LGBTQ2 community (30 per cent) are also more likely to believe that the RCMP regularly exceeds their authority.
Chart 53: Incidence of the RCMP exceeding their authority
Chart 53: Incidence of the RCMP exceeding their authority - Text Version
This chart shows five double bars. Each double bar represents one statement the respondents agreed with and shows the difference in overall unweighted results for two fiscal years: 2019-2020 and 2020-2021.
Respondents were asked: "About how often would you say that the RCMP in your neighbourhood exceeds their authority?"
Respondents selected:
Never/almost never:
2020-2021 (32%)
2019-2020 (45%)
Rarely:
2020-2021 (27%)
2019-2020 (25%)
Sometimes:
2020-2021 (23%)
2019-2020 (17%)
Most of the time:
2020-2021 (11%)
2019-2020 (7%)
Almost always:
2020-2021 (8%)
2019-2020 (6%)
Base (overall): Canadians; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,152, margin of error ± 2.1%, 19 times out of 20
3. Contact with the RCMP
This section looks at incidence of recent contact with the RCMP, the reasons behind these contacts, and client satisfaction with the contact along a number of key measures. In order to remain consistent with past iterations of this survey, the figures reported in this section are unweighted. This ensures that demographic groups that have less contact with the RCMP, e.g. residents of Quebec and Ontario, do not have their perspectives overemphasized.
Note that "DK/NR" – or "Don't know/No response" – is used to denote those respondents who did not provide a response to a question.
3.1 Incidence of Contact With the RCMP
Respondents were asked if they have had any direct contact with the RCMP in the past year. Three in ten (29 per cent) indicate yes, while the majority (70 per cent) say no.
These results have remained largely stable over the past few years.
Regionally, those in Central Canada are far less likely to report contact (six per cent, compared to 29 per cent on average).
Indigenous respondents are more likely to have had direct contact with the RCMP (40 per cent, compared to 29 per cent on average).
Chart 54: Incidence of contact with the RCMP
Chart 54: Incidence of contact with the RCMP - Text Version
This chart shows:
A horizontal stacked bar showing percentage of overall unweighted results for responses across three categories: DK/NR, no, and yes.
A line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who said yes with the statement, between fiscal years 2016-2017 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "In the past year, did you have any direct contact with the RCMP, such as reporting a crime, being stopped for a traffic offence or accident, seeking information, or any other reason?"
Respondents selected:
Overall:
Category "DK/NR": 1%
Category "No": 70%
Category "Yes": 29%
Percentage yes: Overall
2017-2018 (34%)
2018-2019 (33%)
2019-2020 (31%)
2020-2021 (29%)
Percentage yes: Telephone only
2016-2017 (33%)
2017-2018 (38%)
2018-2019 (36%)
2019-2020 (36%)
2020-2021 (32%)
Base (overall): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=2,988, margin of error ± 1.8%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Canadians; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=1,313, margin of error ± 2.7%, 19 times out of 20
3.2 Nature of Contact With RCMP
Those who indicated they had had contact with the RCMP in the past year were asked the reason for their most recent contact. Responses varied, with almost one in four (23 per cent) indicating their contact involved a traffic offence or an accident, one in six (16 per cent) a criminal matter, and one in seven (14 per cent) a complaint. Eight per cent say the contact involved a crime prevention activity.
Tracking reveals that results have remained largely stable over the past few years.
Regionally, those who reside in the Prairies are more apt to attribute their contact to a traffic offence or accident (32 per cent, compared to 23 per cent on average).
Chart 55: Nature of contact with RCMP
Chart 55: Nature of contact with RCMP - Text Version
This chart shows five quadruple bars. Each quadruple bar represents one statement and shows the difference in overall unweighted results for four consecutive fiscal years: 2017-2018, 2018-2019, 2019-2020, and 2020-2021.
Respondents were asked: "[If yes] What was the reason for your most recent contact with the RCMP?"
Respondents selected:
For a traffic offence or an accident:
2020-2021 (23%)
2019-2020 (21%)
2018-2019 (20%)
2017-2018 (20%)
For a criminal matter:
2020-2021 (16%)
2019-2020 (19%)
2018-2019 (18%)
2017-2018 (16%)
For a complaint:
2020-2021 (14%)
2019-2020 (12%)
2018-2019 (11%)
2017-2018 (11%)
For a crime prevention activity:
2020-2021 (8%)
2019-2020 (11%)
2018-2019 (11%)
2017-2018 (12%)
For another reason:
2020-2021 (39%)
2019-2020 (36%)
2018-2019 (38%)
2017-2018 (40%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
3.3 Origin of Contact With the RCMP
Those who indicated they had contact with the RCMP in the past year were also asked if they had initiated the contact. Most (62 per cent) indicate that they did initiate the contact, while about four in ten (37 per cent) did not.
Tracking reveals that the proportion who initiated contact with the RCMP has remained largely unchanged over the past few years, although it is up seven points since 2016/2017.
Chart 56: Origin of contact with the RCMP
Chart 56: Origin of contact with the RCMP - Text Version
This chart shows:
A horizontal stacked bar showing percentage of overall unweighted results for responses across three categories: DK/NR, no, and yes.
A line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2016-2017 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Still thinking of the most recent contact, did you initiate the contact with the RCMP yourself?"
Respondents selected:
Overall:
Category "DK/NR": 1%
Category "No": 37%
Category "Yes": 62%
Percentage yes: Overall
2017-2018 (64%)
2018-2019 (63%)
2019-2020 (62%)
2020-2021 (62%)
Percentage yes: Telephone only
2016-2017 (57%)
2017-2018 (68%)
2018-2019 (66%)
2019-2020 (66%)
2020-2021 (64%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
3.4 Views on Contact With RCMP
Those who indicated they had contact with the RCMP in the past year were then asked for their views on RCMP performance during this contact. Results are generally positive with more than eight in ten (85 per cent) agreeing that it was easy to get in touch with the RCMP, while similar proportions say RCMP personnel demonstrated professionalism (83 per cent), were courteous and respectful (83 per cent), and treated them fairly (82 per cent). Roughly three-quarters feel that RCMP personnel were knowledgeable and competent (77 per cent), delivered the service in a timely fashion (73 per cent), and provided all the information needed (73 per cent). Results are more mixed in terms of the RCMP going beyond minimum requirements in providing good service: 54 per cent feel the RCMP went beyond minimum service requirements, and 23 per cent disagree with this idea.
Tracking reveals that these results have remained largely stable over the past few years.
Agreement rises with age: 89 per cent of those aged 65 and over believe that RCMP personnel were courteous and respectful, compared to 74 per cent of those under the age of 35.
Chart 57: Views on contact with RCMP
Chart 57: Views on contact with RCMP - Text Version
This stacked bar chart shows the percentage of overall unweighted results for responses to eight statements across four categories: don’t know/not applicable, disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance."
RCMP personnel delivered the service in a timely fashion:
Category "Don’t know/not applicable": 2%
Category "Disagree": 12%
Category "Neither (3)": 9%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 73%
RCMP personnel gave me all the information that I needed for the situation:
Category "Don’t know/not applicable": 1%
Category "Disagree": 16%
Category "Neither (3)": 8%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 73%
RCMP personnel went beyond minimum requirements in providing good service:
Category "Don’t know/not applicable": 2%
Category "Disagree": 23%
Category "Neither (3)": 18%
Category "Agree (1-2)": 54%
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 58: Views on contact with RCMP: Ease of contact
Chart 58: Views on contact with RCMP: Ease of contact - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. It was easy to get in touch with the RCMP."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (83%)
2018-2019 (82%)
2019-2020 (85%)
2020-2021 (85%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (92%)
2016-2017 (92%)
2017-2018 (89%)
2018-2019 (85%)
2019-2020 (90%)
2020-2021 (89%)
Base (overall): Initiated contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=534, margin of error ± 4.2%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Initiated contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=272, margin of error ± 5.9%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 59: Views on contact with RCMP: Professionalism
Chart 59: Views on contact with RCMP: Professionalism - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. RCMP personnel demonstrated professionalism."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (86%)
2018-2019 (86%)
2019-2020 (83%)
2020-2021 (83%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (91%)
2016-2017 (90%)
2017-2018 (90%)
2018-2019 (91%)
2019-2020 (88%)
2020-2021 (88%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 60: Views on contact with RCMP: Courtesy and respect
Chart 60: Views on contact with RCMP: Courtesy and respect - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. RCMP personnel were courteous and respectful."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (85%)
2018-2019 (87%)
2019-2020 (84%)
2020-2021 (83%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (88%)
2016-2017 (89%)
2017-2018 (90%)
2018-2019 (92%)
2019-2020 (90%)
2020-2021 (89%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 61: Views on contact with RCMP: Fairness
Chart 61: Views on contact with RCMP: Fairness - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. RCMP personnel treated me fairly."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (86%)
2018-2019 (85%)
2019-2020 (84%)
2020-2021 (82%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (88%)
2016-2017 (89%)
2017-2018 (91%)
2018-2019 (91%)
2019-2020 (91%)
2020-2021 (88%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 62: Views on contact with RCMP: Knowledge and competence
Chart 62: Views on contact with RCMP: Knowledge and competence - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. RCMP personnel were knowledgeable and competent."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (78%)
2018-2019 (79%)
2019-2020 (78%)
2020-2021 (77%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (86%)
2016-2017 (83%)
2017-2018 (85%)
2018-2019 (87%)
2019-2020 (85%)
2020-2021 (83%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 63: Views on contact with RCMP: Timeliness
Chart 63: Views on contact with RCMP: Timeliness - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. RCMP personnel delivered the service in a timely fashion."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (73%)
2018-2019 (73%)
2019-2020 (72%)
2020-2021 (73%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (85%)
2016-2017 (82%)
2017-2018 (81%)
2018-2019 (81%)
2019-2020 (78%)
2020-2021 (80%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 64: Views on contact with RCMP: Receipt of needed information
Chart 64: Views on contact with RCMP: Receipt of needed information - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. RCMP personnel gave me all the information that I needed for the situation."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (72%)
2018-2019 (73%)
2019-2020 (73%)
2020-2021 (73%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (79%)
2016-2017 (80%)
2017-2018 (81%)
2018-2019 (80%)
2019-2020 (81%)
2020-2021 (78%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
Chart 65: Views on contact with RCMP: Incidence of exceeding basic requirements
Chart 65: Views on contact with RCMP: Incidence of exceeding basic requirements - Text Version
This chart shows a line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance. RCMP personnel went beyond minimum requirements in providing good service."
Respondents selected:
Percentage agree (1-2): Overall
2017-2018 (58%)
2018-2019 (58%)
2019-2020 (56%)
2020-2021 (54%)
Percentage agree (1-2): Telephone only
2012-2013 (67%)
2016-2017 (62%)
2017-2018 (69%)
2018-2019 (68%)
2019-2020 (64%)
2020-2021 (61%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
3.5 Satisfaction With Contact With RCMP
Those who indicated they had had contact with the RCMP in the past year were also asked to rate their overall satisfaction with the service they received from the RCMP. Seven in ten (71 per cent) expressed satisfaction, and only 19 per cent were dissatisfied.
Tracking reveals a slight drop in satisfaction over the past year. The proportion of Canadians who indicated satisfaction with the services they received from the RCMP is down 3 points from 2019/20.
Chart 66: Satisfaction with contact
Chart 66: Satisfaction with contact - Text Version
This chart shows:
A horizontal stacked bar showing percentage of overall unweighted results for responses across four categories: DK/NR, dissatisfied, neither, and satisfied.
A line graph showing change in the percentage of respondents who agreed with the statement, between fiscal years 2016-2017 to 2020-2021. One line represents overall unweighted results. Second line represents unweighted results for telephone only responses.
Respondents were asked: "How satisfied were you with the service you received during your contact(s) with the RCMP?"
Respondents selected:
Overall:
Category "DK/NR": 1%
Category "Dissatisfied (4-5)": 19%
Category "Neither (3)": 9%
Category "Satisfied (1-2)": 71%
Percentage satisfied: Telephone only
2016-2017 (76%)
2017-2018 (80%)
2018-2019 (82%)
2019-2020 (82%)
2020-2021 (79%)
Percentage satisfied: Overall
2017-2018 (76%)
2018-2019 (74%)
2019-2020 (74%)
2020-2021 (71%)
Base (overall): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=866, margin of error ± 3.3%, 19 times out of 20
Base (phone): Had contact with the RCMP; most recent data point January 18 to February 1, 2021, n=422, margin of error ± 4.7%, 19 times out of 20
Appendix A: Questionnaire
Web Introduction
We are conducting a study on behalf of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to determine the level of satisfaction with specific aspects of the RCMP's performance. Your perspective is particularly important given the increasing discussion in the past year of important issues and challenges affecting society, including policing.
Please be assured that we are not selling or soliciting anything. The survey is voluntary and your responses will be kept entirely confidential and anonymous.
The survey should take about 15 minutes to complete.
To verify that the survey is legitimate, you can contact Dr. James Lea from the RCMP at 613-282-7047.
Q1 [0,1]
How important is the RCMP's contribution to keeping Canadians safe?
Very important: 1
Somewhat important: 2
Neither important nor unimportant: 3
Somewhat unimportant: 4
Not at all important: 5
Don't know: 99 X
Q2 [0,1]
How satisfied are you with the RCMP's contribution to keeping Canadians safe?
Very satisfied: 1
Somewhat satisfied: 2
Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied: 3
Somewhat dissatisfied: 4
Very dissatisfied: 5
Don't know: 99 X
Q3 [0,1]
I feel safer because of the RCMP.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know: 99 X
Q4 [0,1]
Is the RCMP your local policing service?
Yes: 1
No: 2
Partially: 3
Don't know: 99 X
PQ5
For each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree, or strongly disagree.
General
Q5A [0,1]
The RCMP demonstrates professionalism in its work.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5B [0,1]
The RCMP is an organization with integrity.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5C [0,1]
RCMP personnel are honest.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5D [0,1]
RCMP personnel demonstrate compassion.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5E [0,1]
The RCMP is an accountable organization.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5F [0,1]
The RCMP treats people with respect.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5G [0,1]
The RCMP places an emphasis on providing quality service to the public.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5H [0,1]
The RCMP provides the same quality of service to all citizens.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5I [0,1]
The RCMP places emphasis on providing services in the official language of my choice, English or French.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5K [0,1]
I have trust and confidence in the RCMP.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q5KK [0,1]
I would encourage friends and family members to apply to the RCMP.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PQ5L: Relationship With the RCMP
RELQ5L [0,1]
The RCMP has effective local leaders.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5M [0,1]
The RCMP has effective national leaders.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5N [0,1]
The RCMP provides Canadians with adequate information about its work.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5O [0,1]
The RCMP is an open and transparent organization.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5P [0,1]
The RCMP is representative of the diverse Canadian communities it serves.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5U [0,1]
RCMP personnel reflect the cultural diversity in my community.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5Q [0,1]
The RCMP is dealing with the things that matter to people in this community.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5R [0,1]
I feel a moral duty to follow police orders.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5S [0,1]
I generally support how the RCMP usually acts.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RELQ5T [0,1]
I would help the RCMP if asked.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PQ5U: Sensitivity
SENQ5U [0,1]
The RCMP is sensitive to the needs of different cultures and groups.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
SENQ5V [0,1]
The RCMP is respectful to the cultural needs of Indigenous people.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
SENQ5W [0,1]
The RCMP treats women fairly.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
SENQ5X [0,1]
The RCMP is sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ2 communities.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PQ5Y: Service and Responsiveness
RESQ5Y [0,1]
The RCMP personnel have a visible presence in my community/province/territory.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RESQ5AA [0,1]
The RCMP is effective at responding quickly to calls for assistance.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RESQ5BB [0,1]
The RCMP is contributing to traffic safety in my province or territory.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RESQ5CC [0,1]
The RCMP makes decisions based on facts.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
RESQ5DD [0,1]
The RCMP is a forward-looking, innovative organization.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PQ5EE: Priorities of the RCMP
PRIQ5EE [0,1]
The RCMP is addressing youth involvement in crime as both victims and offenders.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5FF [0,1]
The RCMP is reducing the threat and impact of organized crime.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5GG [0,1]
The RCMP is reducing the threat and impact of serious crime, such as murder, sexual assault, robbery, and arson.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5HH [0,1]
The RCMP is effective at resolving crimes where violence is involved.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5II [0,1]
The RCMP is effectively responding to threats to national security.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5JJ [0,1]
The RCMP is effectively responding to radicalization to violent extremism.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5KK [0,1]
The RCMP is effectively responding to threats to Canadian passenger aircraft.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5LL [0,1]
The RCMP is contributing to safer Indigenous communities.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5MM [0,1]
The RCMP is advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples of Canada.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5NN [0,1]
The RCMP is contributing to more informed and resilient Canadians.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5OO [0,1]
The RCMP is reducing the overall impact of economic crime.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5PP [0,1]
The RCMP is effectively responding to cybercrime threats.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5QQ [0,1]
The RCMP is effectively addressing online scams.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5RR [0,1]
The RCMP is reducing the production, sale, and distribution of illegal drugs.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5SS [0,1]
The RCMP is effectively responding to threats at the border between the ports of entry.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5UU [0,1]
I am aware that the RCMP participates in a variety of international activities, such as peacekeeping missions and offering training to foreign police.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
PRIQ5VV [0,1]
The RCMP rapidly adapts to new and emerging priorities.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Don't know/ No response 99 XS
Q6 [0,1]
About how often would you say that the RCMP in your neighbourhood exceeds their authority?
Always / almost always: 1
Most of the time: 2
Sometimes: 3
Rarely: 4
Never / almost never: 5
Don't know: 99 X
Q7 [0,1]
In the past year, did you have any direct contact with the RCMP, such as reporting a crime, being stopped for a traffic offence or accident, seeking information, or any other reason?
What was the reason for your most recent contact with the RCMP?
For a criminal matter: 1
For a traffic offence or an accident: 2
For a complaint: 3
For a natural disaster, e.g. flood, wildfire: 4
For a crime prevention activity, project, or program: 5
For another reason: 6
Don't know: 99 X
Q9 [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
Still thinking of the most recent contact, did you initiate the contact with the RCMP yourself?
Yes: 1
No: 2
Don't know: 99 X
PQ10
If... Q7 = 1
Regarding your contact(s) with the RCMP in the last year, please indicate whether you strongly agree, agree, neither agree nor disagree, disagree or strongly disagree with each of the following statements about the RCMP's performance.
If a statement does not apply, select "Not applicable".
Q10A [0,1]
If... Q9 = 1
It was easy to get in touch with the RCMP.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q10B [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
RCMP personnel treated me fairly.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q10C [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
RCMP personnel demonstrated professionalism.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q10D [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
RCMP personnel were courteous and respectful.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q10E [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
RCMP personnel were knowledgeable and competent.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q10F [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
RCMP personnel delivered the service in a timely fashion.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q10G [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
RCMP personnel went beyond minimum requirements in providing good service.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q10H [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
RCMP personnel gave me all the information that I needed for the situation.
Strongly agree: 1
Agree: 2
Neither agree nor disagree: 3
Disagree: 4
Strongly disagree: 5
Not applicable: 98 XS
Don't know: 99 XS
Q11 [0,1]
If... Q7 = 1
How satisfied were you with the service you received during your contact(s) with the RCMP?
Very satisfied: 1
Somewhat satisfied: 2
Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied: 3
Somewhat dissatisfied: 4
Very dissatisfied: 5
Don't know: 99 X
Q12 [0,1]
In which of the following age categories do you belong?
18-34 years: 1
35-49 years: 2
50-64 years: 3
65 years or older: 4
Prefer not to answer: 99 X
Q13 [0,1]
What is the highest level of formal education that you have completed?
Less than High School diploma or equivalent: 2
High School diploma or equivalent: 3
Registered Apprenticeship or other trades certificate or diploma: 5
College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma: 6
University certificate or diploma below Bachelor's level: 7
Bachelor's degree: 8
Post graduate degree above bachelor's level: 9
Prefer not to answer: 99 X
Q14 [0,4]
Do you consider yourself...
Select all that apply.
A person with a disability: 1
A member of a visible minority group: 2
An Indigenous person: 3
A member of the LGBTQ2 communities: 4
None of the above: 5 X
Don't know / Prefer not to answer: 99 X
Q15 [0,1]
Which of the following best describes the community you live in:
Population up to 1,000: 1
Population of 1,001 to 5,000: 2
Population of 5,001 to 15,000: 3
Population of 15,001 to 30,000: 4
Population of 30,001 to 100,000: 5
Population over 100,000: 6
Don't know: 99 X
Q16 [0,1]
Do you live in an Indigenous community, settlement or reserve?
Yes: 1
No: 2
Sometimes: 3
Don't know 98 X
Prefer not to answer: 99 X
Q17 [0,1]
What is your gender?
(Refers to current gender which may be different from sex assigned at birth and may be different from what is indicated on legal documents.)
Male: 1
Female: 2
Other: 3
Prefer not to answer: 99 X
QPROV
In which province or territory do you live?
Newfoundland and Labrador: 1
Prince Edward Island: 2
Nova Scotia: 3
New Brunswick: 4
Quebec: 5
Ontario: 6
Manitoba: 7
Saskatchewan: 8
Alberta: 9
British Columbia: 10
Yukon: 11
Northwest Territories: 12
Nunavut: 13
None of the above: 99 SX
Thank You
Thank you very much for taking the time to complete this survey.
