A new report released by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) highlights the increasing concern among small businesses in Canada regarding crime and community safety. The report indicates that almost half of small businesses have had a direct experience of criminal activity in the past year, up from 24 percent the previous year. Vandalism, breaking and entering, theft, and shoplifting were among the top concerns reported by small businesses, with many struggling to address the rise in crime across the country. The impact of crime goes beyond financial costs, also taking an emotional toll on small business owners and impacting revenue due to customer deterrence.
Small businesses in Canada reported a median cost of $5,000 in the past three years spent on responding to crime, including losses from theft, repairs from break-ins, and security investments. The CFIB noted that this estimate is conservative and does not include costs related to a loss of productivity or missed business opportunities. Const. Tom Stamatakis of the Canadian Police Association highlighted the lack of resources for police as a contributing factor to the increase in criminal activity. He emphasized the need for more resources to enable police to respond effectively to the needs of small businesses.
Community safety issues extend beyond break-ins and theft, with waste and litter being a significant concern for businesses. The presence of drug paraphernalia and human waste in communities can contribute to a sense of disorder and promote further criminal activity. The CFIB and the Canadian Police Association are calling for action by the government to address these issues, with a focus on prosecuting offenders and providing alternatives for those dealing with mental health or substance abuse issues. Small businesses are also urging improvements in how repeat offenders are handled by the federal government and are advocating for a collaborative approach to solving the problem.
When crimes occur, a majority of small businesses report filing a police report, but many express dissatisfaction with police response times and services received. A significant portion of businesses do not always reach out to the police, citing reasons such as perceived lack of effectiveness or slow response times. Stamatakis acknowledged the challenges faced by small businesses in getting a timely and adequate police response due to resource constraints. The lack of resources makes it difficult for police to respond to every crime, leading some businesses to stop calling authorities altogether.
Overall, small businesses in Canada are calling for more government action to address crime and community safety issues that are impacting their operations. The report sheds light on the financial and emotional toll that criminal activity can take on small business owners, as well as the need for improved response mechanisms from law enforcement agencies. By prioritizing poverty reduction, mental health support, and collaboration between federal and provincial governments, small businesses hope to see meaningful changes that will enhance their safety and security in the face of rising crime rates.
