Ottawa police officers to receive 19.35% pay raise and extended parental leave benefits

Ottawa police officers will receive a 19.35% pay increase over five years, starting with a 6.85% raise on January 1, 2025. The agreement was reached between the Ottawa Police Association and the city's police services board. In addition to salary increases, officers will benefit from extended parental leave, receiving up to 35 weeks of leave at 93% of their normal salary. The current contract expires on December 31. The Ottawa police budget for 2025, approved this week, includes $388.7 million, which is a $16.3 million increase. It also allocates funds to hire 50 new employees, including 22 sworn officers.