Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach is urging Ottawa to address the rise in crime throughout several communities across Northwest BC.
In a recent Question Period, Bachrach pressed Justice Minister David Lametti on what is being done to address concerns raised by local and provincial leaders.
“We need to see increased investment in housing, mental health support, and treatment services for those people who are struggling,” said Bachrach in his question to the minister.
“Local leaders are also calling on this government to ensure that Canada’s public safety approach is effective. Last month, B.C.’s attorney general met with this justice minister and pressed him for reforms to Canada’s bail system. Will he be introducing those reforms to ensure our communities are safe?”
Minister Lametti snapped back stating he has delegated the topic to a committee of deputy ministers who will report back to him.
“Hearing a committee has been struck doesn’t exactly instill hope,” said Bachrach. “It’s up to the minister to prioritize this issue and ensure solutions are brought forward as soon as possible. We’ll be holding him to that.”
The NDP representative met with party leader Jagmeet Singh earlier this month along with Terrace Mayor Sean Bujtas and the small business community who shared their frustration with rising rates of property crime.
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