Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham speaks at a rally prior to the 2024 Winnipeg Pride Parade, on Sunday, June 2, 2024. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Daniel Crump)
Mayor Scott Gillingham is urging federal candidates in Winnipeg to make public safety and justice reform key priorities in their election campaigns, calling for stronger federal action to address repeat violent offenders.
In a letter sent to local candidates, Gillingham pointed to concerns about rising crime and weaknesses in bail enforcement, saying that federal support is needed to complement local efforts.
“We’ve made important investments in policing, transit safety, and youth programs, but local efforts can only go so far without meaningful change at the federal level,” said Gillingham.
“We need stronger bail enforcement, targeted legislation for repeat offenders, and greater federal support for mental health and rehabilitation.”
The mayor’s appeal follows his State of the City address, where he criticized federal bail laws for failing to keep dangerous individuals off the streets. He also sent a similar letter to national party leaders in March.
Locally, Winnipeg has added 36 police officers, launched a community safety team, and expanded youth outreach programs. Gillingham emphasized the need for a committed federal partner to restore confidence in the justice system.
The issue was further discussed at the AMM Spring Convention on Tuesday at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg.
