WHEREAS the increasing number of individuals creating disorder on streets property crimerobberies, aggressive panhandlerssqueegee persons, graffiti and litter is having a negative effect on the quality of life of citizens and visitors; AND WHEREAS the existing legislative tools are inadequate to effectively deal with those issues: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government enact a Safe Streets Act similar to the legislation already in existence in Ontario to allow police and communities to more effectively deal with aggressive behaviour and to ensure that the penalties and laws are consistent throughout the province; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the provincial government amend the Trespass Act to provide useful statutory authority or enforcement action for businesses and private property owners.
MINISTRY OF ATTORNEY GENERAL Government is aware of the concerns surrounding aggressive panhandling and is considering a number of strategies to address them. Government has introduced provincial legislation that will address a number of these concerns. As a longer term objective, the Ministry of Attorney General will conduct a broad review of the Trespass Act. Other options are being explored in addition to legislation, including further measures to support cities in dealing with aggressive panhandling.