York police to hire 100 new recruits in 2017 as veteran ranks retire
There may be a hiring freeze in Toronto, but YRP are bringing on new staff
YorkRegion.com
Feb. 3, 2017
Jeremy Grimaldi
York police have decided to do something about the more than 300 veteran police officers expected to retire from the force by 2020.
While Toronto police has a hiring freeze in place, York is going on a hiring spree, looking for 100 new recruits to fill the void left by the mass retirement the force is expecting to see over the next few years as officers hired in the lead up to the 1990s retire
The service has produced a slick video to attract the record number of recruits over the next few years.
"Our organization will experience a significant increase in officers eligible for retirement in the next four years and we are actively seeking to hire close to 100 new officers this year alone," the release said.
Police union president Todd Sepkowski said he was happy to see that the police services board and the police executive recognize the need for new officers.
"I think that will suffice for this year," he said. "My concern continues to be for the next two or three years."
In regards to those hoping the service will streamline to make policing in the region more affordable, he said anyone concerned with funding dollars will be happy with the move.
"It takes a police officer 23 years to get to the maximum pay grade," said Sepkowski, inferring new recruits will begin at the bottom-level pay grade. "We are growing one of the fastest in Canada in population, we need officers on the road."
Although his view is on policing numbers remains unclear, police services board chair Frank Scarpitti has said he wants to keep police salaries in line with inflation and voiced his dislike for arbitrated settlements.
Potential recruits must be at least 18 and physically and mentally able to perform policing duties. Four years of high school or equivalent are required and post-secondary education is a bonus.
Visit York police's website for more details.
