Public Complaints and Review Commission
PCRC
Summary
The PCRC was established by SC 2024, c. 25 (Royal Assent October 31, 2024), replacing the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP (CRCC) and extending oversight for the first time to the Canada Border Services Agency. It consists of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and up to three members appointed by the Governor in Council for up to five-year terms removable for cause. Current or former RCMP members and certain border officers are ineligible — the statute implicitly mandates an all-civilian commission. The PCRC may receive and investigate complaints about RCMP and CBSA conduct or service levels, conduct systemic reviews, and review serious incidents including deaths. It has powers equivalent to a superior court of record to compel witnesses and document production. Recommendations are advisory: RCMP and CBSA must respond within mandatory timelines but retain final disciplinary authority. Annual and special reports are tabled in Parliament.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Executive appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 5 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Public Complaints and Review Commission Act
- Citation
- SC 2024, c. 25
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) — conduct complaints, systemic reviews, and review of serious incidents (injury or death); excludes national-security activities (covered by NSIRA)