Interview : Marc-Olivier De Foy

Why did you choose to be a motorcycle officer?

I found that this position has a lot of respectability. There is a positive image associated with Motorcycle Officers - something exemplary. But I must also say that my passion for motorcycles had a lot to do with my choice.

What do you like the most about your daily patrol?

To be on the road and to travel through Montréal in order to improve road assessment of injuries, decrease accidents, etc. The respect of the Highway Safety Code is one of my highest priorities. As a motorcyclist, I have little protection compared to automobile drivers, and  I know that a failure to follow the rules can have

And what do you find most difficult?

Not to ride in the winter! If there is anybody awaiting spring impatiently, it is me!

What is your greatest challenge?

To decrease the number of SPVM motorcycle accidents. As I said, motorcyclists are very vulnerable on the roads, police officers included. Other people's driving can have enormous repercussions when you are as unprotected as on a motorcycle. 

What are you most proud of?

To have obtained 100% in my instructor training course that I followed in the United States.

Can you tell us a story that would illustrate your way of working?

What is particular about your work?

We sometimes have to escort dignitaries. That is where the decorum comes in! There is a certain ceremonial feel to a police escort, a serious responsibility that challenges all of our skill and training. 

What would you say to a young person who would like to do your job?

Everything is possible; you just have to believe in it. It is also necessary to have the safety of others at heart, to work each day with this objective in mind.

What is the principal quality needed to perform your duties?

To like motorcycles, obviously! 

Do you consider your work as dangerous?

Aside from the everyday challenges every police offer faces, I would say that the greatest danger to the motorcycle officer is themselves... The cycle does not offer any protection, and so the smallest negligence of its driver can cause a serious accident. And like all other motorcyclists, we are victim to the good behaviour of other road users.

To find out more

Role of the Motorcycle Officer

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