VANCOUVER Mayor Ken Sim, joined by a coalition of mayors from across British Columbia, on Monday demanded urgent action from the federal government to tackle public safety and the mental health and addictions crisis affecting Vancouver and municipalities throughout the province.
“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of every Vancouverite and British Columbian,” said Sim. “We can no longer accept the status quo when the current system is broken. Vancouver, and other towns and cities across this province and country, deserve to be places where people are safe and supported and where families can thrive. The time for action is now.”
Sim outlined three critical areas where immediate support and action are needed from the federal government:
1. Provincial Mandatory Care and Federal Support: Mandatory care is urgently needed to address the escalating mental health and addictions crisis. Urgent action is needed by the Federal Government to provide legal and financial support to Provinces as they implement mandatory care for individuals with severe mental health and substance use disorders.
2. Meaningful Bail Reform for Repeat Offenders: To safeguard public safety, both the provincial and federal governments must take swift action to reform bail conditions, ensuring that repeat offenders who pose a threat to communities are kept off the streets.
3. A Federal Plan to Secure Our Ports: A national strategy is needed to secure Vancouver’s and the region’s ports and stop the flow of illicit drugs from coming in and the export of stolen vehicles.
“For years, the City of Kelowna has been a vocal advocate for improved and better pathways to healthcare for individuals in crisis, including for compassionate mandatory care. Standing alongside this coalition of mayors, it is clear that we are aligned on the immediate need for a national strategy to implement mandatory care in our communities and to address public safety with meaningful action on bail reform for repeat offenders of all types. By working together, with pace and purpose, I am confident that, together, we can build a system that prioritizes both public safety and compassionate, dignified care,” said Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas.
“Our first responders have been on the front lines of this crisis since day one. We have seen firsthand how the current system is inadequate. These measures will not only help the most at risk individuals in our city but will also support our firefighters by giving them the tools they need to serve Vancouverites,” said Karen Fry, Chief of Vancouver Fire and Rescue
“Securing our ports is not just a Vancouver issue, it’s a national issue. We need the federal government to take crime seriously and stop illicit substances from entering our province,” said Delta Mayor George Harvie.
“The safety of our communities, not just in British Columbia, but across Canada, is at stake. The federal government has a role to play in ensuring our communities are safe and those struggling with mental health and addictions are supported,” said Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley.
“Police need the right tools to keep dangerous offenders off Vancouver’s streets. This includes meaningful bail reform and secure care for people suffering from significant mental health issues who pose a danger to the community. Stronger federal and provincial support is essential to protect our residents and uphold the safety of our city,” said Adam Palmer, Chief of the Vancouver Police Department.
