The MHA for Harbour Grace-Port de Grave says RCMP attended a recent meeting of the Joint Councils of Conception Bay North to address criminal activity in the area.

RCMP have made numerous arrests in recent weeks as part of an effort to crack down on prolific offenders released into the community on court conditions.

Pam Parsons says RCMP have informed the Joint Councils that they’re moving toward 24-hours policing in the region, something she says was welcome news.

” We have two RCMP detachments here in my district\ – in Bay Roberts as well as Harbour Grace – and to see that they recognize that need, and we’re going to be working toward that, is certainly good news for residents.”

A man recently picked up for violations of court orders and charged in connection with a number of break-ins and thefts in the region, appeared in court this morning via video link.

Justin King is being held in custody pending his next court appearance.

Residents calling for greater action to deal with repeat and escalating crime in the area gathered outside the courtroom in Harbour Grace this morning.