From the Sled Dog Action Coalition (http://www.helpsleddogs.org)-- PLEASE SEND PROTEST EMAILS TO THE RCMP:http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cont/comment-eng.htm
http://www2.canada.com/nanaimodailynews/story.html?id=064e2f31-c51f-4afe-9f0f-4db15a565189
Five Questions: Nanaimo's top Mountie has roots in Prairies
Walter Cordery, The Daily News
Published: Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Nanaimo RCMP Insp. Al O'Donnell knows what it is like to "fly the flag" to bring attention to the national police force.
O'Donnell, the acting officer in charge of the Nanaimo RCMP detachment, was posted to Old Crow, Yukon and asked to dress in the Mounties' ceremonial Red Serge at the annual Iditarod dog sled race at the race's finish in Nome, Alaska.
Born in Nipiwan, Sask., O'Donnell says the most rewarding part of being a police officer is the diversity of the work, RCMP officers do "and the fact that we are working to help people." He's been in Nanaimo for three years and though he's an avid outdoorsman, he has yet to go salmon fishing.
The majority of his RCMP career has been spent in his home province of Saskatchewan.
O'Donnell has had 13 different postings during his career with the national police force. He was transferred here from Winnipeg three years ago. O'Donnell doesn't know when the RCMP will name a replacement for former Nanaimo officer-in-charge Jeff Lott but said he wouldn't be surprised if they named somebody next week, although he added it could take months.
1. If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
The anyone would be a couple and they would be my mother and father, who have been deceased for many years.
I would give anything to see them again and introduce them to their granddaughter who they never had the opportunity to meet.
2. What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given and who gave it to you?
To never forget that no one starts their day with intentions of doing a bad job, so give them some slack.
This advice was given to me by my wife Kelly.
3. If you could relive one moment in your life, what would it be?
Of course, it would be the birth of my daughter Makenna. However, I'm not sure my wife would want to go through that experience again.
4. What are five things you can't live without? Describe why for each.
1. My wife and daughter because family is important.
2. A purpose; work, sports, activities to keep me engaged.
3. Friends because life is all about relationships.
4. Travel because I think it is one of life's greatest learning experiences.
5. Dreams. Who doesn't dream of winning the lottery and being able to retire early?
5. If you could be granted one wish what would it be and why?
Peace in the world and I think the reason is quite obvious.