Canada invests $4 million to tackle gun violence in Yukon
- The Government of Canada is investing $4 million in Yukon to combat gun violence through the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund.
- This funding will enhance efforts by community organizations and law enforcement to address gun crime and gang activities.
- This initiative reflects Canada's commitment to public safety and the need for both prevention and enforcement to build safer communities.
On November 29, 2024, in Whitehorse, Yukon, Brendan Hanley, Member of Parliament, announced a significant investment from the Government of Canada aimed at curbing gun violence in the region. The announcement highlighted a funding allocation of $4 million through the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund, designed to assist community organizations and law enforcement in their efforts to enhance public safety. This initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes previous investments amounting to $2.2 million between 2018 and 2023, making a total commitment of $6.2 million from 2018 to 2028 to tackle the pressing issues of gun crime and gang violence. The funding will focus on supporting both preventative measures and enforcement actions, acknowledging the need for a comprehensive approach to crime reduction. Brendan Hanley emphasized that addressing these issues requires a dual approach: prevention and enforcement. The aim is to empower Yukoners to allocate resources where they can make the most significant impact, ensuring that communities feel secure and protected. Additionally, this funding builds upon the existing Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence (ITAAGGV) launched in 2017. This initiative previously provided federal assistance to provinces and territories, enabling them to tackle gun violence effectively. It reflects a commitment to strengthening law enforcement capabilities, preventing crime before it occurs, and enhancing public awareness across communities. The Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund is a part of a larger federal strategy that also encompasses the $250 million Building Safer Communities Fund, which provides direct funding to municipalities and Indigenous communities. These collective efforts underscore the federal government’s aim to ensure the safety and well-being of all Canadians while actively working to prevent gun and gang violence through enhanced support, collaboration with law enforcement, and community-focused initiatives.