Sexual attacks, security gates hot topics at TransLink AGM

TransLink’s new CEO says the rise in reported sex offences in the system this decade is a concern.

The number has more than doubled since 2011, and has gone from 225 in 2013 to 342 in 2015.

“The safety and security of our customers is my job number one, our job number one, so yes it is a concern and I’m confident the transit police working with those of us here at TransLink have our hands on it,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond at the organization’s annual general meeting.

However, Transit Police Chief Doug Lepard said that the increase is not a case of buses becoming less safe.

“It’s not increasing those numbers, what’s increasing is reporting,” he said.

“We’re very concerned, those anecdotal reports. The reality is the research is showing that over the last few years, people are feeling safer and safer on the system.”

Lepard says 60 per cent of sex crime suspects caught on transit are not previously known to police, suggesting these are people taking advantage of being in a crowded place. He says TransLink is about to launch a new public awareness campaign, focused on deterring offenders and encouraging victims to come forward.

TransLink also used the AGM to announce a permanent solution is coming to address accessibility concerns.

When Compass gates became fully operational, some people with disabilities were unable to swipe their cards. Staff were put in place to help those who couldn’t tap in or out – but now there’s a new solution.

It involves installing long-range sensors at a stand-alone door located at accessible entrances.

TransLink says it should be in place in about 18 months.

– With files from CKNW