Security action plan in the works

Marie-Claude Hébert has been working on the project since May. "I got a hold of the diagnostic study and familiarized myself with the local issues. I met with committees who have an interest in the project and verified what is done elsewhere," she explained.

Hébert admits that the transition period did take up some time, but feels nonetheless that it was time well spent. "I'm at the point where I'm establishing links with various partners and determining what the success indicators are to draw up the plan."

The purpose of the visits was to target the ways urban security can be improved by altering aspects of the physical urban landscape. "High hedges and dim lighting are among some of the factors that can add to the sense of insecurity," said Hébert. Recommendations stemming from their observations will be forwarded to local borough officials and the Montreal Transit Corporation for consideration.

For those who feel they are not up to speed on the current security resources available locally, the borough will eventually supply specific information and distribute a pamphlet on urban security.

Hébert points out that there have been reports of local youth sporting the "colours" associated with certain gangs and scribbling graffiti in order to show their allegiance to them. Young people, she adds, are increasingly afraid of becoming victims of intimidation or bullying at the hands of gang members. "I see that police are taking a proactive approach in dealing with gangs and graffiti because they are involved in prevention in the schools and are keeping an eye out in the parks," she said.

According to Hébert, other concerns include the relative inactivity of groups such as Block Parents and Neighbourhood Watch, as well as the ever-increasing multiethnicity of Saint-Laurent's population, where ghettos are apt to form. Theft remains the top priority for most residents, however; not surprising as it is the crime most reported to local police in Saint-Laurent.

As was the case last year, the Centre des Femmes de Saint-Laurent is spearheading the project because one of their main objectives is to eliminate violence against women.

The urban security project is one of the major priorities of the borough, whose three-year social development plan has labelled prostitution, homelessness, drug use, and street gangs as among the problems that need to be addressed. The borough has also come out in favour of improving the sense of security in parks and metros, as well as eliminating violence against seniors and youth.