VICTORIA – Increases in gun and violent crimes in the lower mainland, including a recent shooting where a 74-year-old innocent bystander was killed, show that the status quo approach from the Liberal government is not good enough, says New Democrat public safety spokesperson Mike Farnworth.

“Day after day there is another incident of violence in the lower mainland. It’s tragic, and we can’t afford to slip back to the old days of gang violence,” said Farnworth, MLA for Port Coquitlam. “The Liberal government needs to step it up, not continue with the status quo.

“Our worst nightmare has come true. An innocent bystander has been caught in the crossfire. If that won’t compel government to step up, I don’t know what will.”

This spring, following questions in the legislature from Farnworth, B.C. Liberal Justice Minister Suzanne Anton admitted that there wasn’t any funding for new RCMP services.

“Police are working around the clock, fighting organized crime with the resources they have,” said Farnworth. The last time B.C. saw a rise in violence like that, the government eventually acknowledged they needed to provide more resources to quell the violence.

Farnworth also recognized the frustration police are feeling when citizens and family members won’t come forward with information.

“People need to find the courage to step forward, anonymously if need be, to end the constant cycle of violence,” said Farnworth.