I think there is an element of risk aversion on the part of the parole boards. I also think some of the legislative changes that are being contemplated are actually going to make that worse.
One of the bills that is now before the Senate will make coming forward for parole once every five years if you get denied. Most sentences are under five years, so you're ending up with one shot at parole. If you don't get it the first time you appear, you're not going to be eligible to come forward before the Parole Board again until after your release date or stat release date or warrant expiry date.
If what we're hearing about no parole eligibility for some serious murders coming forward.... The only way people with life sentences are getting out now is through a paroling process, which is a gradual process for them. If that goes, you wonder what the point is of having a parole board if they're not actually going to be taking the decisions that lead to a graduated release.
I think the whole area of paroling and graduated and supported release is one that needs some serious consideration and reflection, because it's becoming totally dysfunctional now.