Years of underfunding the B.C. RCMP by provincial governments have led to public safety concerns. A well-funded, well-equipped police service is essential to safeguard communities in British Columbia against both current and future threats, requiring decisive government action.
As British Columbia's population expands, public safety infrastructure must evolve to match, especially as Government navigates the public safety challenges of today, while also planning for the evolution of crime in the future. A provincial commitment of $250 million over the next four years would enable the RCMP to recruit 300 new police officers, while also enhancing capital assets – like police air, marine, and vehicle fleets, officer equipment, and more, all to effectively tackle new and emerging crime like auto theft, organized crime, guns, fires and floods, and much more.
Instead of spending up to $250 million on the City of Surrey’s unwanted police transition, this money could strengthen RCMP resources across all B.C. municipalities. Nationally, applications to the RCMP increased by over 80% last year, reaching the highest number in a decade with over 17,500 applicants. As interest in joining the RCMP continues to grow, it’s crucial for B.C. to invest now and leverage this increased officer strength.
A new August 2024 survey by Pollara Strategic Insights shows that 82% of British Columbians are worried about repeat offenders, and 86% believe it should be harder for them to be granted bail. While B.C. RCMP Members are dedicated to maintaining public safety, the current revolving door of the justice system puts communities at risk by allowing potentially dangerous individuals to remain on the streets. The Province must take decisive action to end this ‘catch and release’ system and implement initiatives that support safer communities.
To enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of RCMP Members, the new provincial government should adopt evidence-based action aimed at reforming the bail system. Key considerations include:
Create a Community Bail Enforcement Monitoring System: This initiative would involve a team-based approach, combining dedicated law enforcement units with cutting-edge technology. Real-time monitoring systems would provide immediate alerts on potential or actual bail breaches, allowing authorities to act swiftly and prevent minor infractions from escalating into serious criminal offences.
Improve Post-Bail Release Monitoring: The Province should invest in deploying technologies that ensure strict compliance with bail conditions. This involves a thorough review of existing post-release monitoring technologies and the potential development of new, more effective solutions.
Implementing these smart bail initiatives will strengthen the justice system, support B.C. RCMP Members in their duties, and ultimately make our communities safer.
Police play a vital role in the economy, health, and wellbeing of B.C.’s communities. Safer neighbourhoods attract housing investments, local businesses, and community activities, which drives economic growth locally and provincially.
The federal government contributes approximately 30% towards provincial RCMP costs. This enables the Province to invest these savings in what matters to you, like more housing, hospitals, and addressing issues like affordability.
Access to essential support systems reduces the burden on policing resources, allowing officers to focus on critical calls for service and keeping our communities safe. A plan for public safety is a plan for a prosperous future for B.C.
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