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Justice Minister Doug Schweitzer. (Supplied by Doug Schweitzer on Twitter)

Justice Minister touring Southern Alberta to talk rural crime

Sep 4, 2019 | 12:44 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Justice Minister Doug Schweitzer will visit several communities in the region this month to gain input and discuss concerns about the “rapid increase in rural crime.”

“This government is committed to helping keep Albertans safe, secure and protected, wherever they call home,” says Schweitzer. “This includes spending time outside the province’s big cities to hear directly from people about their experiences with rural crime and their insights into it. That is why I’m hitting the road to meet with Albertans to ensure we have a faster, fairer and more responsive justice system to meet their concerns.”

On Thursday, September 17th, the Minister will make stops in both Lethbridge and Coaldale.

Then on Monday, September 30th, he will meet with locals in Okotoks, Raymond, and Medicine Hat.

An official with the Ministry told LNN that they are still working on finalizing the exact times and locations.

“First-hand conversations with Albertans will help ensure our actions truly reflect where Albertans are today,” adds Schweitzer. “We recognize the unique vulnerability of Albertans in rural areas. We want to work with them to ensure our justice system reflects the realities of rural Alberta and has the tools and resources necessary to ensure rural Albertans feel their justice system protects them, their loved ones and their property.”

The meetings will include conversations with residents, business owners, rural crime watch groups, and local officials.

To ensure they get a more broad level of understanding of the concerns, the itinerary also includes stops in larger centers like Lethbridge.