News
Halton Police Board adopts language interpreting services app for enhanced community policing
December 6, 2023 By Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Dec. 6, 2023, Milton, Ont. – In a forward-thinking move, the Halton Police Board officially inked the agreement on Nov. 30, 2023, to integrate the Language Interpreting Services Application (LISA) into its operations. Developed by Languages in Motion Ltd., LISA is a web-based video and audio application that provides frontline officers with 24/7 access to professional interpreters proficient in over 200 languages, including American Sign Language.
Halton has experienced remarkable population growth. In 2020, the population stood at 610,000, and by the end of 2023, it is projected to welcome an additional 50,000 residents. The region is expected to reach a population of 820,000 by 2031. This growth is coupled with increasing diversity, with 17 per cent of residents speaking a language other than English or French at home. Shockingly, over 7,000 Halton residents cannot communicate in English or French, representing a 40 per cent increase since 2011.
Adopting LISA is seen as a pivotal move for the Halton Regional Police Service to address the evolving needs of its dynamic and diverse community. With frontline officers gaining instant access to interpreters through the app, regardless of the language spoken, the Service aims to build trust and establish meaningful relationships with all community members.
Halton Regional Police Service Superintendent Bob Gourley emphasized the commitment to innovation in overcoming barriers within policing. He stated, “Discovering innovative solutions to overcoming barriers within policing is always a top priority for our Service. The people and communities our officers are sworn to serve are evolving, and so too must our mentality and approach to policing. When we say we’re here for the community, we mean everybody.”
– The Milton Reporter
Print this page
