Surrey Police Board media policy sparks controversy after first meeting under new chair

A policy approved during the first Surrey Police Board meeting chaired by Parm Jawanda on Wednesday is drawing criticism from the Surrey Police Union and local politicians, who argue it could limit public communication by the city's police chief.

Under the resolution, the Surrey Police Service chief may speak publicly only on operational policing matters. The policy restricts the chief from commenting on administrative or governance issues involving the police board, Surrey City Hall, or the provincial government.

Critics have described the measure as a "gag order," raising concerns about transparency and the public's access to information regarding the ongoing transition from the RCMP to the Surrey Police Service.

Jawanda said the board's objective is to ensure the transition process is managed effectively and that responsibilities are clearly defined. He rejected suggestions that the policy is connected to the dismissal of the former police chief.

Former Surrey mayor Doug McCallum alleged that Mayor Brenda Locke was behind the decision. Locke denied any involvement, stating she is not a member of the Surrey Police Board and had no role in approving the resolution.