The Province of Manitoba is looking at the existing legislation around the issues of ‘'the right to protect' personal property.

Minister of Justice, Cliff Cullen explains what measures the province is taking to clarify what is legal for property owners when defending their families, homes, and possessions.

“We are looking at some changes that have been made particularly in Alberta, and Saskatchewan is contemplating legislation,” he says. “Ontario has recently looked at legislation. And, there are certainly a number of fronts that we’re looking at in terms of that.”

“it’s a very complex issue when you look at it, but we’ve started that information gathering and we’ll be making some decisions over the next few months.”

“Obviously there will be a consultation with folks like AMM (Assoc of Manitoba Municipalities),” states Cullen. “We’ve had discussions with Keystone Agriculture Producers (KAP) and certainly my Department of Justice is working with the Department of Agriculture as well.”

“So, a lot of issues that have to be addressed and a lot of homework that has to be done,” he says, “but, we are certainly looking at changes when it comes to legislation.”

Cullen says this issue of the 'right to protect' is all about ‘clarity’ around the rules. “Whatever rules we decide we’re going to come up with I think we have to be clear.”

“So, clear that the police agencies know exactly what they’re enforcing, the public knows exactly what the rules are, and what they can and can’t do.”

Some municipalities have discussed bringing more municipal police into their areas.

"The public perception is that we do not have as many boots on the ground as far as law enforcement," continues Cullen. "So, I went back and I had a look at our numbers. Over the last ten years, we've increased our RCMP and staff complement by 11 per cent. So, we do have more people on the front lines. We've also increased year over year the policing budget which primarily is RCMP. And I know they're looking at increasing their complement."

He says a pilot project took place in Northern Manitoba with Crime Reduction teams.  Cullen notes that was successful.

"The intent of the Crime Reduction teams is to go to hotspots. There are hotspots for criminal activity, whether it be theft or illegal drugs," adds Cullen. "They would go to that area, and maybe southwestern Manitoba, and they will find out what is causing that problem and work toward making arrests in that area."

Cullen notes they recently announced that they're going to enhance the Crime Reduction team in Northern Manitoba, and also going add a team in the western district for the RCMP and the eastern district in the RCMP.

"That'll mean 14 more RCMP officers dedicated to fighting crime, particularly in hotspots across the province," adds Cullen.