Dez Loreen
Northern News Services
Published Monday, July 21, 2008

INUVIK - The Town of Inuvik and the local RCMP are now working hand in hand to enforce community bylaws.

Mayor Derek Lindsay announced this week the RCMP has agreed to help enforce bylaws like the curfew.

Lindsay said RCMP assistance is needed to deal with roving youth at night.

"I think the RCMP have more clout than the bylaw officer with the youth," he said, adding that RCMP will serve the town in cases that do not interfere with the town's enforcement of the criminal code.

Lindsay said the RCMP has already been helping Inuvik with other bylaws, such as rules on bicycle helmets.

"The RCMP have done a good job of enforcing the helmets among the bike riders in town," said Lindsay.

The mayor added he is not aware of the number of tickets or warnings given out by the RCMP to date, but is confident that their assistance will have an effect on youth activity at night.

Following meetings with RCMP Staff Sgt. Bill Eubank earlier this month, the mayor said he is happy about the arrangement.

"It will be good to have the backing and support of our local police," said Lindsay.

The mayor said the original agreement between the town and RCMP happened during the former staff sergeant's tenure.

"We had an agreement with Sid Gray about enforcing our bylaws, which is now happening again," he said.

Eubank said the RCMP has always been working with the town for the common interest of community safety.

He added the detachment is up to full capacity, with 19 members making up the local police force.

"We're at full strength now," said Eubank.

He added there are a few extra members in town to watch over the festivities this month.