The RCMP has decided not to issue body-worn cameras to its general duty officers.
In a force-wide memo to staff that was obtained by CBC News, Deputy Commissioner Kevin Brosseau said the current technology isn't durable enough and its batteries don't last long enough.
"The potential implementation of BWC [body-worn cameras] would require that the RCMP purchase thousands of units to be distributed in over 750 detachments," said Brosseau. "The RCMP needs to have confidence in the product and ensure that the choice of technology justifies the investment at this time."
He added that in the meantime, the RCMP will continue to buy and test new models, "with the goal of eventually identifying a camera that meets our specific needs."