News release

Safer Streets and Communities Task Force

Justice

Justice Minister Murray Scott has announced the creation of a new Task Force on Safer Streets and Communities.

The task force will look at community programs, government services, legislation and policing best practices to identify and promote programs that are making a positive impact in communities.

"Crime and its effects are a growing concern across Canada and Nova Scotia. We are increasingly dismayed by reports of street crime, particularly the behaviour of a small number of out of control youth," said Mr. Scott. "At the same time, communities are also experiencing the negative impacts of illegal drugs, especially in schools, and the resulting incidents of property crimes and theft."

Over the coming months, community leaders, law enforcement, counsellors, school officials, and others will be invited to participate in discussions regarding community safety.

"Through this task force we will add the voices of those who are concerned about the cause and effects of crime on our communities," said Mr. Scott. "We will seek their ideas, we will offer information, and together we will develop solutions that have their roots in those communities."

The task force will identify ways to support communities in their efforts to make improvements, and address situations that have a negative impact on neighbourhoods. The result will be a provincial crime prevention strategy and locally driven crime prevention action plans.

"Many government departments, municipalities, police agencies and organizations across the province are actively engaged in promoting community safety and development," said Mr. Scott. "The work of this task force will complement the existing efforts of all partners, and will help address current concerns while charting a course to prevent crime in the future."