Mr. Speaker, all too often there is a most important but ignored element of the criminal justice system, the victim. All too often we hear the plights of those individuals forgotten by the system that seeks to obtain justice on their behalf. Strange but true.
While the Criminal Code contains provisions dealing with victims, it is simply not enough.
While all provinces and both territories have provisions for victim rights, it is still not enough. It is time for a comprehensive study and action.
The federal government will soon conduct a wide ranging consultation with Canadians in all parts of the country on the issue of the victims in the criminal justice system.
I welcome the participation of all Canadians and especially those residents from my riding of Erie—Lincoln at a series of spring town hall meetings on this very important subject.
The final results of this consultation will be a report containing committee findings and recommendations, after which I will continue to press for the introduction of a comprehensive victim bill of rights.
Canada and its victims of crimes are crying out for fair, compassionate and sensitive redress. It is long overdue.