British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell is being accused of talking out of both sides of his mouth when it comes to fighting gang violence.
On Friday -- he announced a comprehensive strategy -- but in the wake of Tuesday's provincial budget -- critics say the province is sending a mixed message.
Controversy has surfaced after Campbell insisted that his government is spending more money to bolster law enforcement against the Wild West-style violence that's rocking in Metro Vancouver.
However, B.C. Attorney General Wally Oppal said he's concerned about cuts to his ministry in the provincial budget.
At the same time, Oppal says he doesn't think the cuts will force prosecutors to delay or withdraw cases and the government's focus on fighting violent crime remains a priority.
Campbell dismisses allegations from the B.C. New Democrats that the government's crackdown on gangs and gang violence is hollow.
The premier also says if local mayors believe merging the Lower Mainland's numerous police forces is the answer, then he would be happy to meet with them to discuss the issue.
There have been a dozen shootings in just over two weeks in the Metro Vancouver area -- seven of them fatal, including a woman killed in her car while her four-year-old son looked on from the back seat.
With files from The Canadian Press
