Corner Brook Councillor says "panhandling is a constant topic of conversation at city hall"

In Canada, peaceful begging itself is often treated as a Charter protected form of expression. 

The city of Corner Brook is still getting calls and hearing concerns about panhandling in the downtown area. At the public meeting in May, council increased the presence of Municipal Officers patrolling the area by foot during business hours. They also had discussions with the RNC about increasing a police presence on downtown streets during evenings and on weekends. On Bayfm with Lenny Benoit, Councillor Donna Luther spoke about the situation and that there are no bylaws to prevent panhandling. She says the biggest message from council is, do not give them money and if they become angry, contact the police. Luther says everyone has to be consistent with this and as she understands it, these panhandlers are making a fair dollar in the run of a day.  

She says it’s a constant topic of conversation at city hall and while some are staying at Corner Brook Hotel, a lot are living in the area on income support. Those at the hotel are given three meals a day. 

Luther while some people want to help, there are better ways to do it. Money can be donated to the Anglican church in the area for their soup kitchen, or the Catholic church, or donate to the foodbank. 

In Canada, peaceful begging itself is often treated as a Charter protected form of expression.