Lighting used abroad to disperse groups

At the last meeting of the Jasper’s Health Advisory Committee (HAC), on April 20, pink lights were discussed as a way to disperse groups of young people downtown.

The coloured lights have been used in the UK because they have a calming effect, they’re seen as “uncool” by some young males, and worst of all, they highlight acne and skin blemishes.

London-based newspaper the Telegraph reported that the lighting has been used in underpasses, and that the crime reduction manager with the Nottinghamshire Police said it proves that creative solutions can be some of the most effective.

However, the National Youth Agency in the UK spoke out against the lights, which they say discriminate against people with flawed skin.

HAC chair Angie Lemire pointed out that some corrective institutions paint their cells pink for its calming effect, and that the walls of the old Seton Hospital were pink. “It could be something council would be interested in,” Lemire said.

Because the representative from Jasper’s council was absent from the April meeting of the Health Advisory Committee, the suggestion won’t be brought before council until the middle of June.