Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Mr. Richards, thank you for tabling this private member's bill. Still, I would like to explain the problems that the New Democratic Party has with the bill. There are things that need to be clarified, and I hope it will be of use to the committee.
The Criminal Code already has section 351. I would like you to explain to me what your bill adds to the Criminal Code. The Criminal Code already sets out stricter penalties than those in your bill. So I'm wondering what the purpose of your bill is. It also follows on events that made the headlines. I have the impression that it's for show more than anything else.
Don't the police and the Crown already have the authority to file an indictment against an individual who commits an offence, meaning if the person takes part in a riot or an unlawful assembly wearing a disguise? That's already covered in the Criminal Code.