The provincial government has released the results of a public safety review for Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
The review was launched by the province in August in response to serious concerns about increased crime rates in the community.
The report was completed by the Policing Transformation working Group.
It includes what government calls “extensive, targeted” consultations with over 85 stakeholders and community members.
An examination of existing policing public safety measures, crime data, safety perceptions, and effectiveness of policing levels was part of the review. Written submissions from the public were also included in the process.
Six recommendations have been made in total. They want:
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-The RCMP complement in the town increased by five frontline officers.
-Enhanced collaboration between the RCMP and the Mobile Crisis Response Team.
-Government support for the creation of a community safety plan.
-The prioritization of the Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP detachment for the provincial rollout of body cameras.
-Formalized communication protocols between the RCMP and key community partners.
-For government to create a safe community “situation table” pilot project for the town – similar to what has been rolled out in PEI.
Government says the report also endorses continued work on the Integrated Health, Housing and Supportive Services Hub – construction on which is expected to begin by next fall.
Justice Minister Bernard Davis has accepted all recommendations made and will work towards their implementation.