The Manitoba government, in partnership with the RCMP, is investing $3.3 million to expand their Emergency Response Team in rural and northern Manitoba.

Justice Minister Matt Wiebe (Weebe) made the announcement Tuesday.

The RCMP Emergency Response Team will now include nine new regular RCMP members, for a total of 18 full-time members.

Their skills and training include rural tracking operations, addressing incidents involving armed persons, high-risk searches and arrests, and carrying out serious crime arrest warrants, along with other specialized training.

Thompson City Councillor, Kathy Valentino, who is also President of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, said the AMM welcomes the investment.

Valentino added that with rising crime and repeat prolific offenders facing little accountability, this support is a critical step toward safer communities and ensuring all Manitobans feel secure – no matter where they live.