News Article: June 18, 2008

Section: News
Outlet: The Nanaimo Daily News
Byline: Danielle Bell
Title: RCMP develop program to step up safety and security at bars
Date: 2008-18-06

Nanaimo (CP) - Nanaimo RCMP are set to unveil a new program to step up safety and security at bars and discourage rowdy and violent behaviour.

On Friday, police will publicly introduce Barwatch, a program to enhance safeguards for patrons at establishments that could include enforcing metal detectors, cameras and the banning of gang-related colours.

Nanaimo's program will be modelled after a successful Vancouver version that was in part prompted by a spate of gang-related shootings.

Nanaimo RCMP Cpl. Dave Laberge said Nanaimo has "never come anywhere near" the extent and severity of problems that metropolitan Vancouver faces, but he said police want to be proactive.

Nanaimo does have "some elements" of gang activity, rowdies and fighters, said Laberge, and some of those issues are emerging in smaller communities province-wide, including Nanaimo, he said.

Though Nanaimo is known for its Hells Angels connections, Laberge said Barwatch is not out to target any person or group in particular.

The program has support from city council, the Downtown Nanaimo Partnership and liquor establishments.

The measures are in addition to a recent security initiative of capturing names and taking photos of patrons who must swipe ID cards upon entering most Nanaimo nightclubs.

Troublemakers are flagged to prevent crossing the street and partying at the next bar, though the [TreoScope EnterSafe] software system spans Canada-wide.

Though bars are not obligated to become a part of Barwatch, said Laberge, "you'd be crazy not to participate."

Kelowna and Prince George are also looking at similar programs, he said.

Though some Vancouver clubs pay annual fees as Barwatch members, Laberge said no fees are involved at this point.

DBell@nanaimodailynews.com

© The Daily News (Nanaimo) 2008