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RCMP Depot Divison in Regina has announced it will suspend the training of future troops due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a release the national police force said as of 4:30 pm, Thursday “most training at Depot ceased.”

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One troop is scheduled to graduate on Monday, another three are expected to complete their training and graduate over the next week.

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All other troops have been sent home and incoming troops have been postponed.

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The RCMP says training will resume once they have been cleared to do so by both provincial and national health authorities.

According to the RCMP those classes will provide an additional 120 new police officers.

A departure plan is being created for trainees who are being sent home based on flight availability.

Regular staff members who are deemed fit for duty may be redeployed across the province or anywhere in Canada.

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Graduation ceremonies for the three classes will not be open to visitors, including family, and there will not be any chapel service or banquet.

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Earlier this week the RCMP announced that all public events would be postponed in the face of the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:

Health officials say the risk is low for Canadians but warn this could change quickly. They caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are asked to self-isolate for 14 days in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.

To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. And if you get sick, stay at home.

For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.