Quebec road inspectors to be armed with firearms

FILE: The Burnaby RCMP shared this photo of an officer inspecting a truck as part of the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement initiative.

The Quebec government will equip road inspectors with firearms.

The inspectors have long complained about the lack of safety in their work, sometimes being exposed to assaults when stopping vehicles.

In a March ruling, the Administrative Labour Tribunal (TAT) noted that “the organization of work, methods, and techniques used are unsafe and jeopardize the health of road inspectors during roadside interventions.”

“The tribunal also finds that the equipment currently provided to road inspectors does not allow them to ensure their protection during roadside interventions,” added administrative judge Danielle Tremblay.

The TAT had previously ordered the suspension of unplanned roadside interventions by inspectors, “thereby preventing the usual patrol activities from taking place.”

Road inspectors will have to complete specialized training before they can use firearms.

Workplaces will also need to be set up “to ensure the safe storage of weapons.”

The government also considered the option of using a stun gun.

Quebec has 300 road inspectors.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Oct. 22, 2025.