MINISTER SINGLES OUT NIAGARA FALLS FOR WORK IN CLOSING GROW OPS

Marijuana grow operations are the target, as the Ontario Fire
Marshal's office will receive $800,000 in annual funding to establish
a provincial task force to combat them.

Community Safety and Correctional Services Minister Monte Kwinter made
the announcement Wednesday in Niagara Falls. This city has led the way
in detecting and closing down marijuana grow operations, said Kwinter.

That, he said, is why the work and results that have been achieved
here are being used as a model for other communities.

"We are taking action to protect our neighbourhoods from the serious
risk of fire and from the health hazards posed by the toxins and mould
that come from these illegal operations," he said.

The announcement was made at the Morrison Street fire station in
Niagara Falls.

"Niagara Falls has become a model of what can be done," said Kwinter,
who singled out the special work done by Niagara Falls fire prevention
officer Jim Jessop.

"We want to turn Ontario into a no-grow zone."

Kwinter said in most cases, marijuana grow operations are run by
organized crime. Ordinary houses in ordinary neighbourhoods are being
set up in communities across Ontario.

This investment, Kwinter added, is part of a $12-million package of
initiatives Premier Dalton McGuinty announced June 6 aimed at
targeting guns and gangs and to fight the impact of organized crime
and illegal drugs in communities.

This will send a clear signal to illegal grow operators that the
people of Ontario will not tolerate dangerous drug operations in their
communities, said MPP Kim Craitor.

He credited the work carried out by police, fire, civic and regional
services in Niagara that worked so hard and provided the leadership to
put together a workable model for the province.

The task force, led by Ontario Fire Marshal Patrick Burke - a former
Niagara Falls fire chief - will work with municipalities, first
responders and justice partners to provide advice and develop
education and training on identifying and dealing with marijuana grow
operations.

Burke said he saw first-hand the impact marijuana grow operations can
have on those living close by.

The illegal drug operations pose a threat of fire and serious health
hazards.

Mayor Ted Salci said the fire department took its responsibility
seriously under the leadership of Burke and is continuing under fire
Chief Lee Smith and Jessop.