NDP MPP Jill Andrew’s statement on Eglinton West shooting

TORONTO — Jill Andrew, NDP MPP for Toronto–St. Paul’s, released the following statement concerning the recent shooting on Eglinton West:

“Little Jamaica is one of the jewels of our city, and Spence’s Bakery is an indispensable community institution. People in Toronto–St. Paul’s, and everywhere, deserve to be safe in their homes, businesses, and their community. My heart goes out to everyone impacted by the terrible shooting that took place on Eglinton West. This violence has no place on our streets, and our resilient community is coming together to address it.

People in my riding have been very clear for years about what we need to be safe in our community. They have shared how government on all levels can help end the violence. The problem must be addressed from all angles. Governments must address the root causes of violence, including poverty, the lack of housing families can afford, and the neglect of critical services – including education, mental health and addictions supports, culture and youth programming, and community spaces. Those are things that we know make communities stronger and safer, yet the Ford government has been cutting them instead of shoring them up.

Making our community safer also must include a focus on economic empowerment and prosperity. Helping ensure that Little Jamaica’s small businesses and people make it out of this pandemic stronger than ever before is critical to building up the community.

The NDP also supports a handgun and ammunition ban in crowded urban areas — one more piece of the puzzle when it comes to making people safer.”