Mayor Scott Gillingham is calling on all federal candidates running in Winnipeg to prioritize public safety and justice reform in their campaigns, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger federal action to address repeat violent offenders.
In a letter sent to local candidates, Gillingham highlights growing concerns about crime and bail enforcement in Winnipeg, particularly the role of repeat violent offenders in undermining public trust and community safety.
“We’ve made important investments in policing, transit safety, and youth programs, but local efforts can only go so far without meaningful change at the federal level,” said Gillingham. “We need stronger bail enforcement, targeted legislation for repeat offenders, and greater federal support for mental health and rehabilitation.”
The call builds on Gillingham’s recent State of the City address, where he warned the justice system is failing to keep dangerous individuals off the streets, and that gaps in federal bail legislation are putting public safety at risk.
Gillingham’s letter urges candidates to make public safety a campaign priority and to commit to advocating for reforms if elected. He noted that progress is being made at the local level — including 36 more police officers, a new Community Safety Team, expanded youth outreach, and discussions on a mental health emergency response service — but said that Winnipeg needs a committed federal partner to restore confidence in the justice system. He sent a similar letter to all federal party leaders in March.
“Public safety is not a partisan issue, it’s a basic expectation of every resident and a foundation for economic growth and quality of life,” said Gillingham. “My message to federal candidates is simple: Winnipeggers need to know you’re serious about fixing a broken system.”
Municipal leaders from across Manitoba will discuss this topic further during a media event this morning at 10:30 am at the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg (Southeast Concourse, 1st Floor North Building, York Ave entrance) as part of the AMM Spring Convention.