Victoria MLA and Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger reflects on her rapid rise in B.C. politics, key safety priorities, policing efforts, and community-driven goals
Victoria MLA Nina Krieger is describing her first year in provincial politics as nothing short of a “wild ride,” marking a rapid and unexpected ascent from community leader to one of B.C.’s top public safety officials.
Krieger, previously the executive director of the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre, stepped into politics after seeking the BC NDP nomination for Victoria-Swan Lake ahead of the 2024 provincial election. Guided by retiring MLA Rob Fleming, she spent months learning the community’s priorities, meeting residents, and strengthening connections with local organizations.
Her community-centric approach paid off. On Oct. 19, 2024, Krieger won her seat with more than half the vote, beginning her political journey as parliamentary secretary for arts and film. But her portfolio expanded quickly.
In June 2025, Premier David Eby surprised her with a major promotion appointing her Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, one of the most high-pressure roles in the province.
“It was a true honour,” Krieger said, describing the offer as both humbling and deeply unexpected. She credited her predecessor and emphasized approaching the role “with great determination” to deliver the safety improvements British Columbians expect.
A Minister Focused on Modern, Effective Policing
For Krieger, the core of public safety is ensuring “adequate and effective policing” across British Columbia. She highlighted ongoing collaboration with provincial ministries to strengthen correctional services, coroner services, and victim support systems.
Her approach goes beyond law enforcement. Krieger repeatedly emphasized addressing root causes of crime, ensuring that public safety solutions integrate housing, mental health, and community support.
Currently, Krieger is working closely with Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services, to examine how public safety intersects with homelessness and health-care challenges.
Building Specialized Units & Supporting Police Resources
A major priority for Krieger is investing in B.C.’s specialized integrated units, particularly those targeting key issues such as drug trafficking and human trafficking. She noted that police departments across the province continue to request modern tools, technology, and staffing, and the ministry is working to meet those needs.
New Tech for Mental Health Calls: Health IM
Beyond enforcement, Krieger highlighted the importance of supporting vulnerable residents. She revealed a soon-to-launch Victoria program called Health IM, a digital tool allowing officers to securely document mental-health-related interactions and share them directly with health-care professionals.
The goal, she said, is to ensure “compassionate interactions” and quicker access to proper care for individuals in crisis.
Action-Packed First Session as Minister
Since the legislature resumed on Oct. 6, Krieger said her new role has come with intensity and excitement. From question period showdowns to fast-paced policy discussions, each day brings new challenges.
“It’s been a wild ride and really exciting,” she added, noting that the workload highlights just how complex public safety truly is.
Staying Rooted in the Community
Despite rapid political elevation, Krieger says her driving force remains the Victoria-Swan Lake community she represents. Ongoing conversations with local organizations, residents, and advocacy groups fuel her legislative work and shape her approach as a minister.
“So much has happened this year,” she reflected, “but the community remains the foundation of everything I do.”
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