Recognizing the uniqueness of First Nation police services throughout every region has sparked the formation of regional associations. Because of regional cooperation many practical benefits have been realized. In spite of these varied benefits, there is a common motivation for forming regional associations. First Nations police services across Canada have unique concerns. The training needs of First Nations police officers working in on-reserve communities are sometimes different from urban officers and these needs must be recognized.
Associations bring recognition, credibility as well as a voice that is strong and unified.
When police services come together as a group, their power to promote First Nations policing concerns increases. For example, the Ontario Association will champion the concerns of First Nation police services across Ontario. The open lines of communication between First Nation police services across the province will prove to be invaluable in promoting Ontario policing interests. First and foremost, the associations across Canada will serve as a resource to share information, to share ideas and to share experiences specifically related to First Nation policing. Because some First Nation police services are small, relatively isolated and First Nation, they confront unique social problems and are unable to benefit from programs which are often available in urban settings.