RCMP changes 'outdated' recruitment process; permanent residents can apply

REGINA - The RCMP is changing how it recruits new members after being told that the process was "too long, inflexible and outdated."

One of the changes will allow people with permanent resident status, who have lived in Canada for the last 10 years, to apply.

Physical abilities will no longer be tested as part of the application process and that evaluation will now be assessed at the RCMP training academy in Regina.

Under the new rules, applicants from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan or Manitoba will also be able to select their home province for their first post after graduation.

The force says in a news release that the move will help it stay competitive and build a diverse workforce, but also that standards won't be compromised.

The RCMP said it will not do interviews on the changes.