North Bay Police Chief, Paul Cook, poses with constable Alexandre Fay moments after the new recruit was sworn in as the 94th member of the North Bay police force. Submitted Photo.
Constable Alexandre Fay called it a morning of mix emotions during his swearing in ceremony at North Bay police headquarters Friday.
“I have been working hard the last couple of years and I just want to help my community. It’s been about four years of putting my nose to the grindstone and I’m ready to get out there and help the best I can.”
Fay grew up in Corbeil and was a student of École Secondaire Catholique Algonquin. He graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice at Nipissing University combined with a Police Foundations diploma from Canadore College. He recently returned from Ontario Police College, following 12-weeks of basic constable training.
Police Chief Paul Cook was proud to point out that 70% of officers from the North Bay police force are graduates of NDA schools.
“Many of the ones that aren’t, have graduated either through Canadore College or Nipissing University, so ties and commitment to the city of North Bay and to the community of Callander are very important during our hiring and recruitment process.”
Cook said this would be his last swearing in ceremony as police chief as he is set to retire next year. He has participated in 49 such ceremonies and stated that Fay’s involvement in the community is what propelled him to the top of the list during the recruitment process. He had this advice for Fay and others new to the force.
“The pride that they’re feeling either at police college graduation ceremony or at their swearing in ceremony, that they never lose that pride. Policing is becoming more and more challenging and you’re going to have good days and bad days. I just say, never forget why you sign up and I challenge them to continue to make a difference in the community that they serve.”
“It’s unreal, I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity I’ve gotten from Chief Paul Cook and everybody here. They’ve been great so far and been very nice and supportive, so I’m really happy I can come out and stay in my hometown,” shared Fay.
