As Torontonians know all too well, there have random attacks and murders on our public transit system, the TTC. This surge in public transportation violence should not be tolerated in a civilized society. It is outrageous that TTC riders should have to fear for their lives. There have been four homicides in the past year, including the recent stabbing death of a 16-year-old. This is reprehensible It should be a major issue in Toronto's upcoming mayoralty election on June 26th. Our city deserves better. We must protect human life in our subway stations and aboard TTC buses and trains.
For a start, why isn't there cell phone service on subway trains? This is where the three big telecommunications companies - Rogers, Bell and Tellus, come into play. They have an opportunity to make the citizens of Toronto feel more safe and secure while riding public transit. Will at least one of them strike a deal with BAI Communications Inc., the company that in 2012 was granted exclusive rights the city to set up wireless service in a 20-year, $25 million deal. To its credit, only Freedom Mobile has signed on. The Big Three have not.
This is a cry from the heart. The ball is in your court, Bell, Rogers and Telus. Do you care at all about the safety of the people of Toronto, or will you continue to put profit first? We will soon see if you will do the right thing. You have no excuse for letting down the citizens of this great city. You have no excuse for not doing your part to ensure public safety. Are you listening Rogers, Bell and Telus? You can save lives. If you fail to come through, shame on you!
This is issue is not going to go away anytime soon and I will continue to write about it. No dithering is acceptable. Action must be taken as soon as possible. Enough is enough!
- Joanne
