MONTREAL - As police in the Montreal area deal with a jump in gun violence linked to street gang clashes, community workers are calling for decision makers to focus on the root of the problem. Coalition Pozé says beefing up police forces after an increase in violence might score political points, but it ignores the root problem. Beverley Jacques, who runs a sports organization in Montreal’s St-Léonard neighbourhood that is part of the coalition,said lawmakers need to consult community groups regularly, not just when there’s a crisis. Jacques said a seat at the decision-making table, stable funding and recognition are what these groups are looking for. Ryan believes the killing of a leading organized crime figure on Canada Day in Kanesatake, a Mohawk community north of Montreal, ignited the current violence.

Source: thestar August 14, 2021 11:03 UTC