Working together for safer communities

Concordia

I know how important it is for families to feel safe in their homes, at work, and in their neighbourhoods. It’s something I hear about often from residents across Concordia and throughout the province. Public safety is one of the most important responsibilities we share as a community, and it’s a priority our government takes seriously.

When we formed government, it was clear there was work to do. Years of cuts had reduced resources for front-line policing, including the loss of dozens of police positions. Our government has begun rebuilding that capacity. We’ve already added 36 new police officers across Manitoba to strengthen community safety and support the officers who work hard every day to keep Manitobans safe.

We also know that addressing drug-related crime is critical to improving safety in our neighbourhoods. That’s why our government launched the Manitoba Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking Task Force, a co-ordinated effort bringing together law enforcement agencies to crack down on meth trafficking and the organized crime networks behind it. By targeting dealers and disrupting the supply of dangerous drugs, the task force is helping reduce the harm drugs cause in Manitoban communities.

Public safety also means ensuring our laws reflect the realities facing communities today. Our government has taken action to restrict the sale of machetes and remove thousands of dangerous long knives from our streets. We’ve also strengthened legislation that allows law enforcement to seize the proceeds of crime, helping police disrupt criminal networks.

At the same time, we know enforcement alone isn’t enough. Some of the challenges we see on our streets are connected to mental health and addiction. That’s why we are moving forward with measures allowing individuals experiencing meth-related psychosis to be safely detained and connected with health professionals. This approach helps ensure people receive care while protecting public safety.

We are also investing in prevention by supporting young people and strengthening community spaces. Through programs that expand recreation, mentorship opportunities, and after-school programming, we’re helping create positive pathways for youth across Manitoba.

These efforts are already beginning to make a difference, with crime trends moving in the right direction. In fact, homicides have dropped significantly, down by 50 per cent, but our work doesn’t stop here. Safer communities require ongoing partnership between government, law enforcement, and the people who call Manitoba home. That’s why our government will continue working every day to reduce crime, strengthen prevention efforts, and collaborate with communities to build a safer Manitoba for everyone.

As your MLA for Concordia and as justice minister, I will continue working to ensure every Manitoban can feel safe and supported in their community. If you ever have questions or concerns, my office is always here to help.