NDP wants more than tough talk on Surrey crime

VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) – Actions, not words, are needed to help solve Surrey’s violent crime problems, according to the NDP.

The message from the official opposition follows last week’s appointment of a tough-talking new public safety minister.

Mike Morris didn’t mince words during his first news conference as BC’s Minister of Public Safety. He promised a crackdown on what he described as “low life cowards” in the drug trade.

NDP House Leader Mike Farnworth says the tough talk will mean little without concrete action.

“The people of Surrey have had to put up with literally a shooting a day over the past year,” he says.

“What’s required is an actual comprehensive plan that’s resourced and followed through on. Instead, what we’ve been getting to date is press conferences with photo-ops.”

As for the focus on low-level criminals Morris highlighted, Farnworth says it is equally important to go after gang leaders.

“Going after the people who are at the top of the criminal gangs, that’s critical as well.”

Farnworth also called for more investment in anti-gang programs in schools.

Back in April, and following a request from Mayor Linda Hepner, the province pledged $270,000 toward anti-gang education programs in Surrey.

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