Mr. Speaker, I am honoured once again to present, pursuant to Standing Order 36, a petition from not only my constituents but the constituents of other members. The petitioners are from Wallaceburg, Chatham, Paincourt, Ridgetown, Tilbury, Charing Cross, Blenheim, North Buxton and Port Alma.
The petitioners state that there are profound inadequacies in the sentencing practices concerning individuals convicted of impaired driving charges. Canada must embrace a philosophy of zero tolerance toward individuals who drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Victims of the crime of impaired driving must be given the highest priority as reflected by their statements prior to sentencing of anyone convicted of impaired driving. In the case of impaired driving causing death or injury, sentencing must reflect the severity of the crime.
The petitioners pray and request that Parliament proceed immediately with amendments to the Criminal Code that will ensure the sentence given to anyone convicted of driving while impaired or causing injury or death while impaired reflects both the severity of the crime and zero tolerance toward this crime.