The administration of Ford is justifying its decision to authorize the solicitor general to arm unspecified groups of special constables, claiming it fulfills their commitment to “protect Ontario.”
Last week, Global News disclosed how the government discreetly inserted a provision in its latest comprehensive justice bill to enable the expansion of special constables authorized to carry firearms.
Special constables function akin to police officers but are not sworn officers. Currently, only special constables of the Niagara Parks Commission and those employed by police forces in other areas are permitted to carry firearms.
Other special constables, working in campus security, public transit, community housing, and with established police services, are equipped with batons and pepper spray.
Solicitor General Michael Kerzner defended the decision on Monday, assuring that consultations will be conducted after the bill’s approval but before regulations are enacted to extend the armament of certain special constables.
“Ensuring public safety is paramount to this government,” he stated. “Our ‘Protect Ontario’ campaign was designed to ensure the safety of all Ontarians.”
The premier’s office emphasized on Monday that the primary focus of the new authority was to enhance the capabilities of Niagara Parks Commission special constables by granting them more potent weaponry. They did not rule out the possibility of extending this privilege to other special constables.
A spokesperson from the premier’s office informed Global News that a conceivable change might involve allowing Niagara Parks special constables to carry “long guns” in an “active attacker scenario.”
They mentioned that currently, their attention is directed towards the Niagara Parks constables, without confirming whether other groups would be affected.
Kerzner mentioned that the changes in armament may not necessarily be applied to campus police or transit enforcement, affirming ongoing discussions with stakeholders.
He evaded questions regarding the potential arming of other special constables.
“I want to highlight the Niagara Regional Parks police, which has a historical context, as they are an exception to the norm,” he articulated.
“We aim to ensure that the dedicated officers of that police service possess capabilities consistent with other police services in Ontario.”
The Niagara Parks Police Service is a special constabulary with authority limited to lands owned by the Niagara Parks Commission.
Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles urged the government to clarify the objectives behind the new powers granted.
“I am eager to comprehend the intentions here. The government should be transparent about their intentions with this legislation,” she remarked.
“This is typical of this government’s behavior. They hastily push through measures granting extended powers without adequately explaining their objectives.”
If Bill 10, the government’s recent justice legislation, is approved, the solicitor general will have the authority to designate which new groups of special constables may bear firearms.
The decision on which groups can bear arms will be made public through a regulation that does not require MPPs’ approval.
“Any regulation will undergo a public feedback process, as customary, and necessitate extensive consultation,” the premier’s office assured.
The president of the Ontario Special Constables Association expressed support for the decision in a social media post.
“The Ontario Special Constables Association has long advocated for improved use of force options for #specialconstables and we endorse Premier Doug Ford and Solicitor General Michael Kerzner,” Sarah Kennedy stated on social media.
“#SpecialConstables are vital #partnersinpublicsafety and contribute to safety and wellness in various settings. Outfitting Specials with appropriate tools will enhance officer and public safety.”
