The RCMP is assigning one of its members full-time to improving communications between the force and Manitoba First Nations.

The move is part of a new memorandum of understanding signed between the Mounties and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) on Wednesday.

Const. Monique Cooper, a 12-year veteran, will fill the special position.

AMC Grand Chief Ron Evans said the assignment of the officer is an important step in improving relations between the police and First Nations.

"There was clearly a need to do something," said Evans, commending the move as an attempt to "reach out."

However, he said he still wants to see a task force set up to examine the cases of missing and slain aboriginal women in the province.