Re: the letter 'Victoria's decision to ban sheltering in parks violates Charter.' Isn’t it true that there are some living in the parks who are a danger to others as well as to themselves? Isn’t it also true that there are criminals who are using the encampments as literal covers for their crimes?
So, if we’re talking about rights then what about our right to be safe? A right to not be accosted, assaulted, robbed, or worse? The right to not have to wait for first responders on Pandora Street to save our lives until they have police escort?
Is it also not right for us to expect to operate and patronize businesses, use our property, streets, sidewalks, transit, parks, and cultural amenities and access services without danger, including from needles and fires, and without damage and trash? Isn’t “peace, order, and good government” also part of our Constitution?
Moreover, isn’t it the province, not the City of Victoria, that is responsible for responding to this crisis? Aren’t municipalities subject to the laws passed by the provinces? Isn’t housing, health care, including mental health and addiction, welfare, and justice administration the jurisdiction of the provinces? Do they not have the power to request federal assistance while demanding that Ottawa pass tougher laws?
Instead, shouldn’t the advocates go after the province for failing to create a comprehensive assessment-based response and, noting the court system delays, for failing to protect the community, housed and unhoused alike? Shouldn’t the province urgently provide treatment and housing while protecting all of us?
Brendan Read
Victoria
