The Craig Needles Podcast

Episode 187: Demotion of St. Thomas cop may set new precedent

A St. Thomas police officer lost rank and pay after being convicted of two counts of discreditable conduct under the Police Services Act. But, his ex-wife, the woman he assaulted, didn't have to testify at the hearing, which could have a major impact on similar cases in the future.

Lawyers Ian and Allison Johnstone explain why the case is important on this edition of the podcast.

Episode 186: Homeless hubs plan revealed

The City of London's plan for hubs that will assist people living with homelessness has been revealed. What does the plan look like? Craig talks with London's Deputy City Manager, Social Health and Development Kevin Dickins about the hubs, where they might be and what they'll hopefully accomplish.

Episode 185: Friday Round Table with Ryan Gauss, John Fyfe-Millar and Cheryl Miller

As anticipation continues to build about the next steps of the city's Whole of Community Response to health and homelessness, the Friday Round Table discusses what they're looking for.

Craig is joined in studio by political insider Ryan Gauss and former city councillors John Fyfe-Millar and Cheryl Miller to discuss.

Then, they talk briefly about the future of Thames Pool.

Episode 184: Susan Stevenson on homelessness plan and communication

Londoners are set to get a look at city staff's plan for the Whole of Community Response to health and homelessness next week. But, when dollar figures are being leaked and feedback has become difficult to provide, some councillors are concerned about communication.

Ward 4 Councillor Susan Stevenson joins Craig on the podcast to share her thoughts.

Episode 183: Friday Round Table with Jeff Preston, Cheryl Miller and AJ Wray

On this week's Friday Round Table, Craig welcomes advocate Dr. Jeff Preston, former city councillor Cheryl Miller and PhD candidate AJ Wray to the studio to breakdown this week's top stories.

They talk about the homelessness depots and the city's strategy for helping people without a place to live, and the rising costs of giving taxpayer money to corporations to create jobs.

Episode 182: Examining London’s homeless service depots

Four new service depots - set up near encampments where people dealing with homelessness are living - have been set up by the City of London.

Craig chats with Chantelle McDonald of London Cares and Kevin Dickins, the Deputy City Manager of Social and Health Development, about the depots and what they're hoping to accomplish.

Then Margie, a woman who lives near the depot in Cavendish Park, shares her thoughts on how she believes the system is failing.

Episode 181: Police Service Board appointment process comes full circle

After months of media controversy, interviews and more - Ryan Gauss has been appointed to the London Police Services Board. How did it all happen? Craig breaks down a surprising council meeting, then Gauss joins him to share his thoughts. The runner-up, Stephen D'Amelio, then shares his thoughts with Craig.

Episode 180: Friday Round Table with Shawn Lewis, Cheryl Miller and Carol Dyck

Craig is joined by London Deputy Mayor Shawn Lewis, former city councillor Cheryl Miller and regular Green Party candidate Carol Dyck join Craig on this week's Friday Round Table.

They discuss the LTC's problems with the AODA, moving the transit commission to be under direct city control, the timing of council meetings and when green bins will finally arrive in London.

Episode 179: LTC failing people with disabilities

Is the London Transit Commission violating Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act?

A group of advocates wants an audit and has pointed to some very specific problems in how paratransit and other part of LTC service are operating.

Dr. Jeff Preston joins Craig on the podcast to explain the letter and how the LTC can fix their failures for people with disabilities in the community.

Episode 178: Experiencing homelessness with Y.O.U.

Youth Opportunities Unlimited is one of the leading non-profits in the city.

They work with about 3,600 people between the ages of 16-30 each year. Getting them access to services that provide basic needs and housing, as well as physical, mental or dental health care, or education and employment supports.

They also work with people who are experiencing homelessness, including podcast guest Daniel Crites at one point. Now, Daniel helps run YOU's Clean Slate program.

Daniel and YOU CEO Steve Cordes join Craig in the studio to discuss his journey and how the city, province and country can help people who are struggling on London's streets.