FOR RELEASE     #08-034
February 13, 2008

WHITEHORSE – First-year statistics for the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) office have been compiled by the Yukon government.

The public has made 139 complaints respecting 108 properties since the SCAN office opened in late 2006.

“Yukoners have shown that they support the legislation by turning to the SCAN office for assistance when there is ongoing harmful activity in their community,” Justice Minister Marian C. Horne said. “Yukoners tell us that they feel safer in their neighbourhoods, thanks to this legislation.”

The public complaint process has resulted in activity being voluntarily ceased at 20 locations. Another 17 tenants were formally evicted by their landlord after they failed to stop their activity, even after repeated warnings.

“These statistics show that citizens are given a fair opportunity to stop the behaviour that is harmful to their neighbours before they are evicted,” Horne added. “Those who choose to obey the law are allowed to remain in their home, otherwise they will be forced to move. That’s the law.”

Approximately 90 per cent of the complaints have been made in Whitehorse.

The public is reminded that they can call the SCAN hotline at 456-SCAN (7226) in Whitehorse or 1-866-530-SCAN (7226) if they witness ongoing prostitution, drug activity or bootlegging.

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