Alberta will be hiring 100 new police officers in Calgary and Edmonton in an effort to improve public safety.
Premier Danielle Smith made the announcement in Calgary on Tuesday, saying the new street-level officers will be hired over the next 18 months.
Smith also called on the federal government to reform its “broken catch-and-release bail system” to help the province in its fight against crime in the cities.
In addition to increasing the number of police on city streets, the province is also encouraging the City of Calgary and the City of Edmonton to transfer command and control of transit peace officers to the Calgary and Edmonton police services.
“This transfer would enable the police to better lead a coordinated and strategic response to the increase in violent crime on public transit,” said a government news release.
On Tuesday, the province also announced a $5 million grant for each city, which officials say will help keep station platforms and vehicles, clean and safe.
“Enough is enough – the rising crime levels in Edmonton and Calgary are unacceptable,” said Minister of Public Safety Mike Ellis. “Albertans have a right to use public transit and walk the streets without fear. We are working with our partners to develop a clear plan to take our cities back from those who seek to cause harm.”
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