Victoria, BC — In response to the growing politicization of public safety, the BC Greens are urging a return to cross-party cooperation reminiscent of the Special Committee on Reforming the Police Act.
“People are tired of public safety being turned into a political football,” said BC Green Leader Sonia Furstenau. “We need to come together, across party lines, to create real solutions that make everyone in our communities feel safe. Public safety must be grounded in anti-racism, community accountability, and evidence-based practices.”
The BC Greens advocate for the immediate implementation of recommendations from the *Transforming Policing and Community Safety in British Columbia* report, including:
– Funding a continuum of responses to mental health, substance use, and other complex social issues, with a focus on prevention and community-led interventions, integrating mental health support into 911 call options.
– Appointing an all-party parliamentary committee to undertake a comprehensive and binding review of the Mental Health Act.
– Ensuring Indigenous peoples and local governments are engaged in drafting Community Safety and Policing Act legislation.
– Enhancing and standardizing police training to promote values and competencies that foster a shift in police culture.
“I understand that many people are feeling worried and uncertain about safety in their communities,” Furstenau added. “While Vancouver Police Chief Adam Palmer has reported a decrease in crime, we must also acknowledge the rise in homelessness, which has grown from 7,655 people in 2018 to 11,352 in 2023. These complex challenges call for compassionate, community-focused solutions.”
Saanich North and the Islands MLA Adam Olsen, also a member of the Special Committee, echoed Furstenau’s sentiments. “The BC NDP has ignored this roadmap since 2022. It’s time to act.”