My question is for the Solicitor General.

Sadly, I’m hearing concerns from the people of my community about increased criminal activity. Of course, the issue extends beyond our local community of Brampton East. We’ve all heard media reports about a rise in attacks on religious institutions and hateful graffiti. Hate-motivated incidents that target individuals, families and businesses based on their ethnicity, religion, race or gender have many feeling vulnerable and threatened.

The public safety of all Ontarians must be our government’s highest priority. The people of my community and all Ontarians are counting on our government for support and solutions.

Speaker, can the Solicitor General please explain how our government is addressing crime and increasing protection for Ontario communities?

It’s reassuring that our police services are well-trained and well-equipped to protect our communities. We value the dedication and service of our front-line police officers.

Ontario is one of the most diverse places in the world, and everyone is responsible to be respectful and welcoming to all. The words and actions that we all use must help build stronger, safer and more inclusive communities across our province.

Speaker, can the Solicitor General please explain what other actions our government is taking to support the safety and protection of all Ontarians?

I want to thank my friend from Brampton East for his question. As I said before, everyone in Ontario has a right to feel safe and free from harassment, hate and discrimination. That’s why we’re building an Ontario for everyone, where everyone belongs and everyone can contribute and prosper. This is our Ontario.

Mr. Speaker, I want to assure this House that our police work day and night to protect all Ontarians from violence, and this government will always have the backs of everyone that keeps Ontario safe.

Recently, I visited the Ontario Police College, where I saw for myself the police training—the training for investigations and hate crimes, so that they are prepared to keep us safe.

Mr. Speaker, let me be clear: Our government has a zero tolerance towards hate and violence of any kind.

Let me be clear: There is no excuse for anti-Semitism, Islamophobia or racism of any kind. It’s totally unacceptable. Hate is toxic to our democracy. And if anyone here or anywhere engages in this type of behaviour and feels you can double down or triple down on this, we have a message for you: We will call you out.