I simply want to correct for the record the impression that the crime rates are going down, especially in areas like Toronto, where handgun crimes and robberies are now moving up dramatically. So if you want to put things on the record, I can dispute that simply by referring to Statistics Canada.
When we look at crime statistics, I would suggest that the member should not look at simply a five-year period or a ten-year period. Look at a generation and see what has happened in our cities, especially with gun crime.
I will in fact table these statistics.
Now, in respect of the cost of the justice platform, my colleague Minister Flaherty has already indicated in our budget that we are going to operate under a basic principle of fiscal responsibility. My officials are working very closely with the ministries of finance and public safety to anticipate any cost related to our platform commitment. Our 2006 budget-committed funds respond to our anticipated cost for Corrections Canada, for RCMP officers, and to provide money for victims of crime. We believe these measures are worthwhile in reducing the crime cost and associated cost to Canadians.