Edmonton's new acting chief of police says he plans to rebuild strained relationships with the public, the police commission and the media.

Bob Wasylyshen held his first news conference as the acting chief Tuesday morning. He said, " The public is going to see a greater emphasis on dealing with crime, criminal issues, those issues that are important to them. I think we're going to be very sensitive to public opinion."

Former chief John Lindsay resigned Monday after weeks of controversy surrounding the chief and his relations with the commission and city hall

Lindsay will take on the role of consultant to the Police Commission for 17 months before retiring in June 2001.

Wasylyshen said he wants to focus on re-building confidence in the Edmonton Police Service. " I think there's a general public anticipation that there's some new ideas, a fresh start in terms of some of the problems in the past, getting them resolved and getting on with policing," he says.