Since 2007, the West Shore RCMP has had an Indigenous Policing Unit working in and with local First Nations both to fight crime and build important relationships.

A key tool in both those goals is the detachmentB次元官网网址檚 canoe called TlB次元官网网址機hes Spirit.

TlB次元官网网址機hes is the Lekwungen word meaning island, specifically Chatham Island, traditional Songhees land off what is known today as Oak Bay. The 35-foot Pacific Dancer Canoe boasts traditional Indigenous artwork and is used by the West Shore RCMP Indigenous and Community Policing UnitB次元官网网址檚 for community and cultural events.

Elder Joan Morris, whose traditional name is Sellemah, was the last Songhees Nation member to have lived on TLB次元官网网址機hes (Chatham Island). Sellemah has shared many teachings with Const. Cole Brewer who began the canoe program several years ago.

B次元官网网址淭he tradition of passing on Indigenous teachings is what inspired us to start this canoes program. Every time we take a group of people out on TLB次元官网网址機hes Spirit, we provide a cultural briefing which allows the participants to understand the history and significance of the area,B次元官网网址� said Brewer, a member of the Lower Similkameen Indian Band.