Thank you, Mr. Hoback.
This is interesting. I will reiterate how important the bill is, as it tackles a serious issue. I think it is a scourge too. We have to try to discourage people from doing things like that.
With all the awareness campaigns out there, I don't understand why, in 2015, people—I'm pulling my hair out trying to figure out what we can do to make them understand—
I know that you are focusing on the most serious cases. I practised criminal law, so I agree with you: a blood alcohol level of 0.16 means someone is pretty drunk.
In January, in the riding of Gatineau—which I represent—50 drivers who had been arrested for driving while impaired were discharged because of unreasonable delays. Everyone was shocked by that news.
Parliament may pass legislation, but there are other major things involved, including access to justice. Justice can also be faster. We need more judges and crown prosecutors so as to avoid passing legislation that seems tough, but then having people wake up and see that 50 drivers have been let go. I am not saying they were all guilty. Nevertheless, 50 people were charged, and they were discharged because their trials could not be held within a reasonable timeframe.
I'm glad you explained what gave rise to the bill. One of my concerns is about increasing the minimum sentence, which is already established in the Criminal Code, in the sections we are dealing with. There is a theory out there that the problem is due to the fact that minimum sentences are becoming the standard. It is not uncommon for the Crown or the defence to stick to minimum sentences. We have to keep in mind the Nur ruling, which held that the mandatory minimum sentence must not be exaggerated, as it might not pass the test. Courts often stick to the minimum sentences.
Is it not dangerous to set a minimum sentence, instead of increasing maximum sentences and leaving it to the court's discretion to rule based on the case and the individual's criminal record?
I am surprised to see that MADD Canada is not supporting your initiative. I don't know whether you know why that is, but perhaps you could explain it to us.
Have you looked into the legality of increasing mandatory minimum sentences in light of the Supreme Court of Canada's recent decision on those sentences?