Objectives

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) provides First Nation citizens who have been mistreated by law enforcement officers with a complaint friendly alternative to mainstream offices of public complaints:
To ensure that all complaints are investigated thoroughly; and 
To provide complainants with such protection from retaliation or other discomfort as they may require.

Complaints are received by the Special Investigations Unit either directly or through departmental staff.  
The Investigator reviews all material related to the complaint; 
Advises complainant of a best course of action; and pursues the direction given by the complainant;
The Investigator makes inquiries necessary to substantiate the complaint.

The SIU continues to receive calls from Saskatchewan First Nation citizens who register complaints relating to law enforcement, human rights, social services and health institutions.  For the period March 2000 to May 2009 inclusive, there have been 2183 files opened. 

The SIU has undergone an internal reorganization to better serve the needs of First Nation citizens.  More effective governance and operational processes have been developed and the intake process has been streamlined to ensure that all concerns are quickly addressed.  The SIU is maintaining its commitment to respond to all calls within a 48 hour time period.

The first report to the Chiefs-in-Assembly was presented at the June 2009 Legislative Assembly.  The report includes the history of SIU, its evolution, funding sources, complaints statistics, its mandate and responsibilities. Future priorities of the SIU are: updating the SIU database for more effective and accurate reporting, and an educational strategy.