PM SKIRTS RCMP BLUNDER

MONTREAL -- Prime Minister Jean Chretien gave a pep talk last night to RCMP
brass as the police force continued to come under fire for an undercover
operation that ended up supporting the cocaine trade.

Calling the RCMP a "symbol of pride and unity" for Canada, Chretien made no
mention of the failed undercover operation blamed on a lack of adequate
funding by the federal government.

"The RCMP has become a front-line partner in the fight against organized
crime, particularly in the war on drug trafficking and investigations into
economic crime," Chretien told the 1,000 guests attending the RCMP
regimental charity ball honoring the force's 125th anniversary.

"As prime minister, I want to thank you for a job well done," Chretien said.

The PM also unveiled a new stamp commemorating the anniversary saying the
officers and staff have "every reason to be proud they are part of renowned
police force with a rich tradition of excellence."

On Friday, it was revealed Ottawa is defying a court order and blocking the
disclosure of documents showing how the RCMP brass approved a failed
Montreal money-laundering sting operation and a similar one in Vancouver.