What matters here is not only the reasonable time, but also the situation in which it is reasonable to act. That is what we are adding. It is not just us. The vast majority of the witnesses who appeared found this provision problematic.
I always take exception when I hear comments like yours, Mr. Woodworth. I am not trying to single you out necessarily. But when I try to define the notion of reasonableness, it is not with a criminal or a victim in mind. I do it with our goal in mind.
If we are establishing lines of defence, there is a reason for it. I am always in pursuit of justice and truth, regardless of which side they are found on. I will always take exception to that kind of comment.
Seriously, we proposed this because it was a concern. The government must be aware of the fact that almost all the witnesses told us there were problems. Some told us not to touch it.
We are willing to touch it and to introduce our amendments. It may be possible to move forward with the proposed amendment, which in no way detracts from the notion of a reasonable time, by clarifying things with the words:
“at the first reasonable opportunity”.
If we go back to the example given by my colleague Brian Jean. If it's me up against four tough guys, I might wait until my three brothers get there to feel a bit more comfortable in making the arrest. The proposed amendment would cover that very scenario.