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Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown has warmly welcomed the federal government’s announcement of the “National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft,” a robust initiative unveiled by Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland during her recent visit to Brampton. This plan represents a crucial development in addressing the escalating auto thefts in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and across Canada.
Peel Region, particularly Brampton and Mississauga, has seen a dramatic increase in vehicle thefts, with incidents more than doubling since 2020. According to recent statistics from Peel Regional Police Service, vehicle thefts surged from 3,127 in 2020 to 8,322 in 2023, marking a significant 166% rise.
Deputy Prime Minister Freeland emphasized the federal commitment: “This issue affects far too many Canadians, and we are fully committed to addressing it through robust collaboration with all levels of government.” The government’s comprehensive strategy includes legislative and regulatory changes to impose stricter penalties for offenders, enhanced information and intelligence sharing among policing services, and increased funding to improve inspections at Canadian ports to prevent the export of stolen vehicles.
Mayor Brown particularly praised the focus on improving port security, an initiative he has long advocated for. “Enhancing our ability to detect and prevent the illegal export of stolen vehicles not only protects our residents’ property but also disrupts the financial channels of organized crime,” stated Brown.
Regional Councillor Paul Vincente commented, “This plan is a testament to what can be achieved when local and federal governments work hand-in-hand. It’s crucial for the safety and security of our communities, and I am optimistic about the positive impact it will have.”
Regional Councillor Navjit Brar added, “The rapid increase in auto thefts in our region has been alarming. This action plan is a proactive measure that reassures our community and demonstrates a serious commitment to tackling this prevalent issue.”
This collaborative effort between municipal and federal governments highlights the shared commitment to safeguarding Canadian communities. Mayor Brown extends his gratitude to federal partners for recognizing the urgency of this matter and providing the necessary resources to combat it effectively.
Conservative federal opposition leader Pierre Poilievre also recognizes the gravity of auto thefts, advocating for additional changes to the criminal code and increased penalties for offenders during his campaign stops in Brampton.