Monday, May 7, 2007

Public Safety In B.C.
MLA Statements

While wars and conflicts are still threatening people's lives in many regions of the world, we are very fortunate to live in one of the safest communities. However, British Columbians still consider public safety as one of the top five priorities. The other four are the economy, health care, education and the environment.

We are aware that public safety includes many areas, such as protection from flood, fire and other natural or mankind-induced disasters, as well as drug addiction and crimes. In 2005 British Columbia was second to Saskatchewan, with the highest overall crime rate in the country.

However, we are making progress. In 2005 B.C.'s overall crime rate decreased by 5 percent, and the property crime rate decreased by 8 percent. Although the property crime rate has decreased steadily from the high rate of 90 Criminal Code offences for every 1,000 people in 1991 to 62 in 2005 — which is the lowest in more than 20 years — it's still high compared with many other provinces. In Vancouver, Burnaby and Surrey property crime rates have been reduced to 75 in 2005, compared with 50 in Richmond, 45 in Montreal and 30 in Toronto.

Last weekend I participated in the public forum on public safety at the Chinese Cultural Centre. The participants put forward many ideas, including more visible police forces in the street; stiffer penalties for repeat offenders; encouraging citizens' involvement, like Block Watch and community policing; and reforming criminal laws to introduce minimum sentences. Most of all, it is suggested that more resources should be directed to help people with mental health and addiction problems.

I would like to thank all of the concerned citizens for raising the issues and working together towards a safer community for all.