News Release

For Immediate Release
September 1, 2005

Attorney General Announces Plan To Work Closely With Toronto Police To Combat Gun-Related Crime

TORONTO — The McGuinty government announced today a strengthened partnership with the Toronto Police Service and four new initiatives, which will help build on the province's plan to combat gun violence, said Attorney General Michael Bryant.

"Ontario is committed to doing everything within its power to stop gun-violence. We have already taken significant action to reduce gun crimes, prosecute those responsible and stop the spread of illegal guns in this province," said Bryant. "By working even more closely with the Toronto police and the federal government, we will build on our previous achievements and further strengthen the province's comprehensive gun strategy."

The government is today announcing four additional initiatives to address gun violence:

• Developing "blitz" inspections of gun businesses to ensure gun storage and safe-keeping standards are being met
• Creating a gun amnesty to get more illegal guns off the streets
• Improving Ontario's witness protection program to encourage more community members to come forward when they have witnessed a serious crime and
• Implementing new and innovative ways for Crown prosecutors to bring community impact evidence before the courts in seeking tougher sentences.

"This strengthened partnership between the province and the police will continue to build on the work already being done by police officers and the Crown to both seek out and prosecute those responsible for gun crimes," said Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair.

"The McGuinty government will continue to take a leadership role in reducing gun violence. We are working closely with the police and all levels of government to ensure our communities are safe and provide a quality of life second to none," said Monte Kwinter, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

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