There have been numerous studies done. In fact, there was a study yesterday which I saw that was quite interesting. It showed, in fact, that the per capita population of the inmate population, as compared to the Canadian population, has not actually increased, which runs contrary to other studies that I've seen.
What we're trying to do, Mr. Casey, as you know, is demonstrate accountability to call upon those offenders who have committed serious violent offences. That is where the emphasis has been, and that is where I can speak only for myself as justice minister in this observation. That is where the line has to be drawn when it comes to sentences that truly reflect society's abhorrence of violence and sexual violence. That is where it is our view, my view, that longer periods of incarceration are appropriate. They're appropriate on a number of fronts, to protect the public from further violence, to send a message of general and specific deterrence, not losing sight of the fact that eventually, in most instances—the majority—that offender will be released.
The opportunity for rehabilitation sometimes is also assisted by a lengthier period of incarceration. This is a factor. As you know, having practised law, prosecutors will very often discuss with defence counsel the need for a person to access drug and alcohol rehabilitation, and better counselling when it comes to violent behaviour. Sometimes that takes a longer period of time. Those are all factors that have to be considered, and this is very much behind our view—and it's perhaps a different philosophy from your own—that some periods of incarceration should be mandatory.