Montreal metro's new safety plan amid rising mental health and addiction issues

The Montreal Transit Corporation is concentrating security staff at certain metro stations, officials say, due to a growing number of people with mental health or addiction issues on the line.

Eric Alan Caldwell, president of the corporation's board, said the transit authority fears losing riders because it feels unsafe because of the presence of vulnerable people.

The corporation will deploy four-member special constables and other security personnel to monitor 10 stations where riders feel unsafe.

Director of Safety Jocelyn Latulippe said the corporation's goal is to reassure riders, but public health authorities need to do more to direct those who need help to the appropriate resources.

Otherwise, he says, the metro will remain a revolving door for people who need help but don't get support.

Latulippe says the new security plan will be in place until the end of the month, and the buyout could be extended.

This Canadian Press report was first published on April 10, 2024.

Canadian Press