The Code of Conduct is to train Niagara Falls city employees and tourism to recognize human trafficking case
Unanimous support by the City of Niagara Falls for a human trafficking Code of Conduct for Niagara.
Councillor Mona Patel's idea is for tourism sector workers, also city by-law and parking enforcement, to receive training to recognize if someone is in trouble.
Project Consultant Dave Augustyn stresses the importance of training. "If something comes forward during FIFA, heaven forbid, during another event here in the city, in the region, it shines a negative light on all the wonderful activities that are happening here. People might start wondering about what's happening here in Niagara Falls."
Crimestoppers shows human trafficking in Niagara is more than double the national average.
Manager of Municipal Enforcement Chris Gallagher saw a greater awareness in Niagara around 2010. "And then probably heightened close to 2014, 2015... the growth is substantial, the corridor between Niagara Falls and Montreal is increased substantially."
Crimestoppers points out Niagara's tourism and being at the border contribute to the problem.
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