Mr. Speaker, this afternoon we are debating Bill C-53, an act to amend the Prisons and Reformatories Act.
Canadians who are watching should not be misled that this amendment is in any way going to further the protection of the public. It simply gives more flexibility to the consideration given to prisoners. It would add a statement of purpose and principles to the temporary absence programs. The question arises in the minds of those who are watching: What is a temporary absence program?