OTTAWA – The Conservative government’s silence on the issue of escalating gang violence in Surrey continues to put communities at risk. “The federal government has an obligation here – why bother having a Minister for Public Safety if they have no intention of prioritizing public safety?” asked NDP MP Jinny Sims (Newton—North Delta). “People are scared and the community is devastated.”

Following yesterday’s joint press conference hosted by the mayor of Surrey and BC’s premier, Sims is demanding the Conservatives step up and provide the assistance the city and province are requesting.

“I’ve asked for more police on our streets. I’ve asked for more accessible gang-prevention and drug-crime prevention funding. The Conservatives have done nothing,” said Sims. “24 shootings later, I’m wondering if any of them are listening now: where is the federal leadership here?”

Both Sims and NDP MP Jasbir Sandhu (Surrey North) have motions before the House of Commons related to crime in Surrey. Sandhu’s motion asks for increased and ongoing funding for gang prevention and Sims’ motion is for more RCMP officers in the Surrey area.