The new session of Parliament must take real action to address the public safety concerns of Canadians. Across the Greater Toronto Area, residents are increasingly alarmed by the rise in violent crime, and they are demanding action from every level of government. The federal election results in the GTA made that crystal clear.
While political analysts may focus on national vote shares with Prime Minister Carneys impressive victory what happened in key ridings in the GTA tells a more specific story. The government suffered unexpected losses and the issue that came up time and again at the doors was public safety. I have heard from defeated incumbents who shared with me that crime was the biggest issue at the door step. This is not just a concern for Brampton or Peel. It is a national issue across our Big Cities
As Mayor of Brampton and a member of the Peel Police Services Board, I have seen the impact of organized crime firsthand. A series of recent shootings in the region, have been linked to international cartels operating in Canada. These groups are exploiting our ports, airports, and logistics networks to traffic drugs, and firearms. This is a level of coordination and sophistication that cannot be fought by local police alone.