By: Winnipeg Tribune Staff Writer
Winnipeg, April 30, 2024 - In a bid to address rising concerns about safety and crime levels across Manitoba, Premier Wab Kinew and Justice Minister Matt Wiebe have announced the convening of a public safety summit. The summit aims to engage stakeholders in discussions on reducing crime, enhancing community safety, and tackling the root causes of criminal behavior.
Premier Kinew emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Too many Manitobans are feeling unsafe at home, at work, and in our communities. Our government is committed to ensuring that Manitoba families feel secure, and we believe that collaborative efforts are key to achieving this goal.”
The summit brought together a diverse array of community leaders, including representatives from Indigenous leadership, law enforcement, victim services, and various advocacy organizations. Discussions centered around shared priorities and strategies to address the underlying factors contributing to crime.
Justice Minister Matt Wiebe reiterated the government’s commitment to toughening measures against crime while also addressing its root causes. He stressed, “Manitobans deserve to feel safe regardless of where they live or work. This summit is just one aspect of our comprehensive approach to tackling crime and its underlying drivers.”
Sessions at the summit covered a wide range of topics, including mental health, addictions, youth violence, gender-based violence, rural and northern safety, access to justice, law enforcement, and organized crime. The goal was to gather diverse perspectives and insights to inform a province-wide strategy aimed at reducing crime and enhancing community safety.
Feedback from the summit will play a crucial role in shaping the upcoming province-wide strategy, which is scheduled for release in late September. Justice Minister Wiebe affirmed his commitment to ongoing consultations with stakeholders throughout the spring and summer to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing crime in Manitoba.