Queen's students raise concerns about special constable program

Two members of the Alma Mater Society addressed city council on the issue.

The Alma Mater Society of Queen's University says the special constable program the city is rolling out will further criminalize vulnerable individuals.

Commissioner of External Affairs Edlira Ballaj shared their concern. 

The society represents 21,000 Queens students. 

Up to five existing by-law officers will undergo a minimum of five weeks training of the Community Safety and Policing Act, and will be given certain police powers, including making arrests.

Kingston Police Deputy Chief Scott Gee explained how a detention would work.

Details need to be ironed out but the special constables will likely assist with trespassing, homeless encampments, liquor control violations and more. 

Gee said they'll help with resources to get the city's program up and running. 

The Alma Mater Society's VP of University Affairs Alyssa Perisa fears this could lead to rising tensions among police and the student body. 

The society called on council to defer the motion for a later date and gather student and public consultation before moving ahead. 

The motion later passed with Councillor Jeff McLaren the lone opposed.

Story by Grant Deme