By Michael Jiggins, Executive Assistant to Steve Clark, MPP, Leeds-Grenville – written October 1, 2013

(QUEEN’S PARK) – Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark is welcoming his new role as Ontario PC Critic for Community Safety and Correctional Services.

Clark’s position in PC Leader Tim Hudak’s shadow cabinet was announced Monday at Queen’s Park. The MPP, who was Critic for Municipal Affairs and Housing since 2011, will also retain his role as Deputy House Leader for the Official Opposition.

“I’m excited to be given this new responsibility,” said Clark. “I have the utmost respect for the work our police officers, firefighters, correctional services staff and all emergency services personnel perform every day on behalf of Ontarians.”

Clark said he is looking forward to meeting with key stakeholders in the sector to discuss a wide range of issues. He will attend his first public event as critic on Sunday when he will be proud to represent the Official Opposition at the Ontario Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial Service near Queen’s Park in Toronto.

“The ministry’s responsibility ranges from policing, corrections, death investigations and the Office of the Fire Marshal to emergency management, animal welfare and forensic sciences,” noted Clark. “It’s a diverse ministry with a tremendous responsibility to protect the public safety of Ontarians.”

In his new critic’s role, Clark stressed he will continue to advocate for a female secure treatment unit to be established in Brockville to treat the growing number of mentally ill women in Ontario’s jails.

“Getting these women the help they need is an urgent issue and we need to see some immediate action from Minister Meilleur,” said Clark. “Working with our community partners, I’m going to continue urging the minister to expand upon the expertise we have in place at the St. Lawrence Valley Correctional and Treatment Centre in Brockville by establishing a Female Secure Treatment Unit here.”