We are concerned that the provincial closure of existing harm reduction services will have significant consequences — such as more overdose deaths, more strain on police, fire and paramedics, more crowded emergency rooms, and more public drug consumption.
What we need in Toronto is a comprehensive approach that includes all the services people need — supportive housing, treatment services, mental health services, primary care, harm reduction and more.
I join our community in mourning the loss of Bilkis Khanam and extend my deepest condolences to her friends and family.
The Sherbourne and Dundas area remains a top priority for my office to see properly revitalized, and one property that comes up frequently is 214-230 Sherbourne Street. There has been some recent movement on the site, and I wanted to provide a broad update about what is happening and what some potential next steps may be.
Over the weekend, a demonstration in support of Palestine made its way through Regent Park. At Parliament Street and Gerrard Street East the demonstration was interrupted when Toronto Police attempted to seize a truck that was in motion with people on its bed, in violation of the Highway Traffic Act.
Toronto Police have informed me that this afternoon, there was a shooting at a residence near Dundas Street East and Parliament Street that left two people dead and one with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
On December 14, I tabled a motion, with the Mayor's support, to officially adopt the new name “Sankofa Square” for Yonge-Dundas Square by the end of Q2 2024. The motion also covered the removal of the Dundas name from three additional city assets and the launch of a public education campaign that will extend into 2025, focusing on acknowledging the impact of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and slavery.
As many in the community know, the air conditioning at the St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre has not been functioning this summer. While staff has been exploring repairs, the temperatures within the building have been dangerous to both residents and employees alike, reaching above 40C.
Our community is experiencing trauma. However, we recover best with love by standing in solidarity at times of struggle. That means all levels of government and the community together must support each other.
Joint statement with Councillor Ausma Malik on Hanlan's Point and the Toronto Island Park Master Plan.
Mayor Tory's resignation means that now more than ever, all of our councillors need to work together to give our city and our people the strong, effective City Council they can depend on, and deserve.
