Communities throughout British Columbia will benefit from $7.5 million in grants supporting local initiatives aimed at preventing crime, advancing healing and enhancing public safety.

Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has released the following statement in response to the Province repealing Restricting Public Consumption of Illegal Substances Act:

Following two summers marked by a surge in highway fatalities, the B.C. government is taking action to make roads safer and place higher penalties on those who drive dangerously.

A new agreement between British Columbia and Alberta means B.C. wineries can again ship their products directly to Alberta consumers, reopening a vital sales and tourism channel for B.C.’s wine industry.

People in British Columbia will benefit from projects working to advance community safety, address gender-based violence and support Indigenous healing through funding from the civil forfeiture grant program.

The Province is continuing to take action to keep people and communities safe through new initiatives that help to combat gangs, fight organized crime, and stop criminals from bringing violence and toxic drugs into communities.

ICBC is providing a $110 rebate to eligible drivers through prudent financial management and better-than-expected investment income.