OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 09/10/12 -- The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, issued the following statement to mark the opening of the 50th Annual International Association of Women Police (IAWP) Training Conference taking place in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.

"I commend the International Association of Women Police for the valuable work they do in representing the interests of women in policing around the world. Women have an important role in policing - like all officers, they approach their work with dedication, energy and professionalism while bringing unique contributions and perspectives.

Keeping our streets and communities safe is a top priority for our Government. We believe that everyone - regardless of gender or where they live - has the right to feel safe and secure in their homes and communities.

The Association also organizes the Annual IAWP Training Conference, a valuable opportunity for both women and men in law enforcement to network, exchange ideas and experiences, and gain knowledge from international experts in their field. It is also an opportunity to honour female police officers from around the world in the areas of leadership, commitment and bravery.

This week marks the start of the 50th Annual IAWP Training Conference. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate you on this landmark event and wish you a successful conference."

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