Mike W. Bryant
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Apr 12/04) - If the fur fits, then wear it -- that was the verdict coming down from RCMP headquarters, last week, on a decision to stick with the traditional muskrat hat officers wear during the winter.

The RCMP proposed switching to a synthetic winter hat last fall, but the department has since decided against the idea, said RCMP 'G' Division commander, Insp. Paul Richards.

"They found that (the synthetic hats) did not meet with the specifications or utility that they wanted," said Richards.

"They did a trial of it and it didn't work."

Richards said the synthetic hats were reviewed by a randomly chosen group of officers from across Canada. He said he wasn't aware of any officers from 'G' Division taking part in the trial committee.

No specific reason was offered as to why the synthetic hats received an unfavourable review, said Richards.

The issue did generate some debate between animal rights groups and those who support the fur industry.

"Obviously, that's part of the consideration of testing new equipment," said Richards.

"But the key for the RCMP is that our members are equipped with the proper equipment that allows them to do their duties."

Richards said most officers have already stashed away their muskrat hats for the summer.

The one officer who did wear his muskrat hat to work Thursday, Sgt. Steve George, said he was happy to hear the RCMP is sticking with an age-old tradition that has been with the force since the early 1900s.

"I love it," said George, who called the proposal to switch to synthetic materials "another change nibbling away at our traditions."