In order to deal with armed violence among young people, the official opposition in Montreal wants to set up a helpline to support parents and allow them to seek help.
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“The idea is to offer a tool for families who are struggling with the need to be able to respond to children who descend into violence,” explained Alba Zúñiga Ramos, spokesperson for the official opposition in matters of youth.
According to the opposition plan, it is the Center for the Prevention of Radicalization Leading to Violence (CPRLV) which would be responsible for this, while the organization already has some expertise in the matter.
This confidential assistance measure would also, according to the opposition, make it possible to reach parents who are afraid to contact the SPVM because of fears of legalization.
“We think that by working with the center we can make people feel comfortable calling,” added Ms.me Ramos. She would also like the establishment of this line to be accompanied by an awareness campaign.
Ensemble Montréal, which represents the official opposition at City Hall, will be tabling a motion at the next City Council on February 21 for the City of Montreal to expand the mandate of the CPRLV in this regard. The Plante administration, which represents the majority, will however have to give its approval.
“We want to work to slow this outbreak of violence in Montreal, and we believe that there is not a single solution, but that it takes several,” concluded Ms.me Ramos.
Reflection in progress
The CPRLV explains that it is already working on it.
“Like many civil society groups, the [CPRMV] is concerned about the issues associated with gun violence among youth. The expertise and experience developed with people affected by radicalization have proven their worth, ”explained Roselyne Mavungu, executive director of the organization.
On the side of the Plante administration, it is indicated that discussions are already underway with the CPRLV in order to “assess their involvement”. The reflections should be presented at the eventual Montreal Forum for the fight against armed violence.
Projet Montréal also indicates that it has doubled the budget dedicated to community organizations working to prevent violence among young people, for a total of $20 million over four years.