The message from Manitobans to Ottawa is very simple.
Ottawa needs to take urgent action to keep communities safe. In a recent survey, nearly nine in ten Manitobans want immediate bail reform and changes to the Criminal Code to hold repeat offenders accountable.
88% of Manitobans strongly or somewhat agree that the federal government must reform the system to hold repeat offenders accountable and prevent further crimes.
CKDM News caught up with Mayor David Bosiak to get his thoughts on the numbers.
"I know that attending the city's caucus meeting several weeks ago, it all makes sense to me," said Bosiak. "I would concur that something needs to be done. We also heard from the Deputy Minister of the province that they're working very hard to communicate with the federal government. Something needs to be done."
When it comes to policing, the City of Dauphin pays the RCMP $3 million annually. This includes 15 officers, which is a significant impact on the city's budget. Bosiak says any additional funding for policing would be welcomed. He says there is not much more they can put on taxpayers to support additional officers.
While there are vacancies in the RCMP in Dauphin and across the country, Bosiak says the city is fortunate with our local detachment and the restructuring that has happened provincially. Dauphin falls in the West District.
"We are very satisfied with our staff sergeant and sergeant," offered Bosiak. "We have some vacancies in Dauphin, but we are below the national average. We're fortunate in that regard."
Crime in the community continues to be a hot topic for many residents.
Bosiak understands crime may be on the rise in Dauphin, but he's a firm believer that the city is a great place to live and raise a family.
"The vibe from council and support organizations that we're working with to deal with some of the issues related to mental health, homelessness, or addictions, I know that we have good buy-in from all of our local partners," ended Bosiak. "I would say that generally, we are a safe community. Do we have issues? Yes, but we're working on them. It could be a lot worse."
The survey found that 72% of Manitobans want more federal funding for policing.
