New Democrats committed to tough action on crime, gangs, and guns
Stopping crime at its source part of New Democrats' pledge
New Democrat candidate Don Davies today applauded Jack Layton's anti-crime measures.
"The time is now for tough action on crime," said Davies. "Gun and gang crimes require stiffer conditions and swift action. People deserve to be safe in their homes, on their streets and in their communities."
Layton announced a series of measures that include:
Putting at least 2,500 new police officers on the streets.
Ensuring first-degree murder charges apply to gang-related homicides.
Making drive-by shootings and firing at buildings indictable offences.
Re-classifying auto-theft as a more serious offence.
Enabling cities, communities, and provinces to choose to implement an 'absolute ban' on handguns.
Targeting the sale of illegal weapons via the Internet.
Dedicating police units to combat gangs and organized crime networks.
Strengthening witness protection programs.
Investing in prevention strategies that will tackle the root causes of crime.
Jack's anti-crime plan came on the heels of Davies calling for stronger security at the region's Skytrain stations. "A key plank of the New Democrat's plan is increased federal transit funding to ensure Vancouver commuters receive, efficient, clean, and convenient service, while making certain transit riders' safety is assured," said Davies.
"Jack Layton's plan will stop gang crime at its source by stemming recruitment of our kids," said Davies. "We will work with at-risk youth and provide them real alternatives to gangs by investing $50 million a year for crime prevention strategies."
"People are concerned about safety at transit stations...
"Jack Layton and the New Democrats are committed to stopping the spread of gangs, and to stopping the epidemic of gun violence threatening our families.
