The top post of new commissioner at the RCMP was just appointed to Brenda Lucki, the first woman in Canada’s history to hold this position permanently.

Lucki has been with the RCMP for 31 years and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said she was “absolutely the best person for the job, who just happens to be a woman.”

Trudeau and Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale announced Lucki's new role at a ceremony in Regina March 9.

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"Lucki has made it her mission to serve the public. She's known for being a hard worker, a dedicated officer and as someone who is constantly looking for ways to improve the status quo," Trudeau said at the ceremony.

Among her distinctions are the United National Force Commander's commendation for bravery, two UN protection forces medals and the Canadian peacekeeping service medal, according to CBC.

Lucki was also inducted into the Order of Merit of the Police Forces for her work on improving relations with First Nations in northern Manitoba.

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The new commissioner is expected to play an important part in advancing reconciliation efforts.

The RCMP has made headlines in recent years over sexual harassment lawsuits and accusations of discrimination.

The acquittal of Gerald Stanley in the death of First Nations man Colten Boushie in February sparked outrage across the country and has done nothing to improve the relationship between the RCMP and Indigenous peoples.

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Lucki is prepared to take on this new role with the RCMP.

"I plan to challenge assumptions, seek explanations and better understand the reasons how we operate. This means that no stone will be left unturned. And if what we find works, then we carry on until we unearth the issues that need addressing," she said.

Before last week’s appointment, Lucki had been the commanding officer of the RCMP's training academy in Saskatchewan. Her work there focused on strengthening the force’s diversity, according to CBC.

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Lucki has served in many provinces across Canada and worked with the United Nations in what was formerly Yugoslavia. She also trained police for the UN Civilian Police Mission in Haiti, according to CBC.

Lucki replaces Bob Paulson, who retired after serving five years in June 2017.

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Canada Just Named the First-Ever Female Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

By Jackie Marchildon