Ottawa police officers secure 19.35% pay raise and improved parental benefits in new deal

Ottawa police officers will receive a 19.35% salary increase over five years under a new labor agreement. The deal includes improved parental leave, allowing up to 35 weeks at 93% of salary, compared to the previous 10 weeks for paternity and 15 weeks for maternity. The agreement was ratified by 1,975 of 2,258 members, with strong support from both sworn and civilian officers. The Ottawa Police Association views the enhanced parental benefits as a tool for recruitment and retention, particularly for women. In addition to the salary increase, the Ottawa Police Service plans to create 50 new positions in 2025, funded by the municipal tax base. The budget also includes $9 million in efficiencies, which may have contributed to delaying the implementation of body-worn cameras until at least 2026.