Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs announced up to $3.5 million over three years for Project "Drive Out," a joint initiative with INTERPOL to combat transnational organized vehicle crime.
Auto theft in Canada involves organized crime groups that operate globally and are known to be involved in the export of stolen vehicles from Canada. This project will enhance information sharing between law enforcement agencies, member states and private industry and strengthen data analysis, in order to identify stolen vehicles and spare parts around the world and return them to Canada. These efforts build on actions taken to detect and intercept stolen vehicles through the National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft.
Earlier this year the Government of Canada announced an investment of $15 million to support law enforcement agencies' work to combat auto theft, through the Contribution Program to Combat Serious and Organized Crime (CPCSOC). Today's announcement is part of that commitment. In addition, we continue to increase the capacity of the CBSA by investing $28 million to detect and search shipping containers for stolen vehicles, enhance collaboration with domestic and international partners and explore advanced technological solutions.
Auto theft claims are down 19 per cent, which is a testament to the progress we are making to crack down on this crime with the continued support of our partners. This downward trend is promising, but we know that criminal networks are quick to adapt. The Government of Canada, as well as law enforcement agencies, will remain vigilant, in order to protect Canadians' property and keep communities safe.
