Madam Speaker, there is no question that a balanced approach is necessary. We have to deal with those people who commit criminal offences. That is a must. We have to deal with them effectively, taking into account the public interest and the rehabilitation of the offender.
I agree with those persons who say the pendulum has swung too far in one direction. We have to seek that equilibrium or that balance. On the other hand we have to do what we can to ensure that people do not embark on a life of criminality. We have to deal with and address root causes of crime such as unemployment. I am convinced the government will deal with the question of unemployment. If people are working they are less likely to commit crime.
Also we have to deal with the question of poverty and the fact that so many Canadians go to bed hungry at night. If we deal with poverty we will deal at the same time with crime. We will reduce criminality. A multifaceted approach is necessary. I agree with the hon. member that we must deal with the root
causes of crime because in the long run that would be a more effective way of dealing with crime in our country.