Manitoba's Premier says he knows crimes against business are a major concern in rural Manitoba.
"We're listening to a lot of those concerns that are being brought forward," said Premier Kinew. "All over rural Manitoba, I think we're all familiar with business owners and property owners that are dealing with crime."
Not only did the Premier acknowledge this concern but says it's something his government is taking action on.
"First of all, the overall funding for law enforcement across Manitoba has gone up. So, we're investing in police services everywhere in Manitoba.
We brought in the Security Rebate program. So, for those folks who are using security cameras (and) alarm systems to prevent and hold thieves and other folks committing these crimes accountable, we've been able to help with some financial assistance there."
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The Premier noted, more initiatives will be rolled out to further help curb retail crime.
This summer, the Manitoba Government topped up the successful Retail and Violent Crime Initiative in Winnipeg, twice.
When asked if a similar program could be coming for rural Manitoba, Premier Kinew said a detailed conversation is underway about what this initiative could look like going forward.
"What it's been up to now is, basically, we're paying for overtime for existing police officers, and that's inside the City of Winnipeg. As we hear really good success stories and people saying that this thing is making a difference, we're now asking that question. When we look at other police services across Manitoba, how can we partner with them? Would the same idea work there, or is it other local priorities that need to be attended to first?"
Having worked alongside the National Police Federation on recent bail reform measures, Premier Kinew also suggested that addressing staffing shortages within the RCMP could be another piece to the puzzle.