Quebec launches $139.4-million crime prevention plan, calls for applications from community groups

Quebec’s new public security minister wants to tackle the recruitment of youth in organized crime as part of a new crime prevention plan.

This program will provide support to organizations that work in the field with vulnerable individuals, victims, and those at risk of becoming involved in crime.

“Prevention is just as important as enforcement in the fight against crime. Whether it’s fighting organized crime, the sexual exploitation of minors, or violence against women, what really matters is directly helping those who work on the ground with vulnerable people. We want to hear ideas from the community. I therefore invite organizations to submit their applications so that together we can continue to innovate. What we are announcing today is not only an important step in the fight against organized crime, but also in reducing bureaucracy and making the government more efficient,” said Ian Lafrenière, Minister of Public Security, Minister Responsible for Relations with First Nations and Inuit, and Minister Responsible for the Nord-du-Québec Region.

The province is investing $139.4 million over five years in the program. It includes three parts:

-Supporting community organizations working to prevent crime and sexual exploitation of minors;

-Developing new approaches or intervention methods to address evolving criminal and social phenomena;

-Rapidly deploying concrete actions in response to priority issues in the fight against crime, both in terms of prevention and enforcement.

A call for applications for parts one and two is now open. Organizations have until Nov. 18, 11:59 p.m., to submit their applications.

The third part will open soon. Learn more about how to apply here.