PRINCE RUPERT Communities in BC that adopt a program involving municipal workers with local police in the fight against crime are safer as a result of the joint effort, says CUPE BC President Barry ONeill, who will deliver a presentation on the unions City Watch program at Prince Rupert city council Tuesday, March 29, 2005 at 7:00 p.m.
The program, which is already in effect in several B.C. municipalities, is a joint effort of labour, civic officials and local police to reduce crime rates by providing extra eyes and ears for the community. Under City Watch, municipal workers are trained to recognize potential criminal activity and report suspicious behaviour.
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WHAT:
Presentation on City Watch program, Barry ONeill CUPE BC President -
DATE:
Tuesday, March 28, 2005 at 7:00 p.m -
WHERE:
Prince Rupert Council Chambers
Weve had a lot of success with City Watch where its been introduced, says ONeill. Local residents appreciate having city workers trained to help enforcement officials, and the police appreciate it because it makes their job easier. Its also good for our members, because it shows how committed city workers are to the community they work and live in.
ONeills presentation to Prince Rupert city council will focus on how the program works and the successes so far. City Watch has already been launched in Victoria, Ladysmith, Chilliwack, the District of Kent, Langley Township, Kamloops and Prince George. Training begins next month for a City Watch program in Burnaby.
ONeill, back in the North as part of a provincial tour, will be available for media interviews after his presentation to council.
Contact:
Barry ONeill, CUPE BC president, c: (604) 916-8444 or Diane Kalen, CUPE Communications, c: (778 )229-0258.