The Voice of Canada News:

Premier Doug Ford issued the following statement on the fight against gun and gang violence in the City of Toronto:

“Our government is doing everything in its power to fight the recent episodes of gun and gang violence and protect law-abiding citizens. I’m proud we’re taking the necessary steps today to give our men and women in uniform the extra boost they need to go after these violent criminals. They have our backs and we will always have theirs.”

“Our government is investing $25 million over four years to support the fight against gun and gang violence in the City of Toronto. Mayor Tory and Chief Saunders have indicated a pressing need for the provincial contribution to the gun and gang fight to be used to support surge funding for anti-gun and gang police operations. Today, our government is delivering by taking the necessary steps to authorize up to $1.5 million of our contribution to be used to put boots on the ground where they are needed most to keep people safe.”

“In addition to the $25 million invested in Toronto over four years, our government has also launched a province-wide strategy to dismantle gangs once and for all and ensure criminals who commit offences using firearms end up where they belong – behind bars.”

“I want to thank all of our frontline officers who have been working tirelessly to respond to the recent wave of violence and keep violent criminals off our streets. We owe them a debt of gratitude. We will continue to work with our police to build on this important strategy in the coming weeks.”