Madam Speaker, it is a pleasure to speak to the Group No. 3 motions of Bill C-3, an act that would bring about a DNA database.
There are two key issues we need to address here. One is the issue of privacy and the other is the issue of deterrence. My friend from Prince George—Peace River talked a little about this.
I think it is very important that whatever system is put in place people know their privacy is ensured. As finance critic for the official opposition, I could say how many times we have had people come forward to say how very concerned they are with respect to the information they have to give to banks and to government organizations.
People want to know that information will not be misused. That is a pretty important consideration. I think a lot of people are concerned in a day and age where technology has become all encompassing.
Giving information to one person may mean that it is spread out, that everybody has access to it everywhere. It is a very legitimate concern. I support the hon. member's motion to put in place some big penalties to ensure that if people misuse this information they will face a very severe penalty, up to five years in prison.
I support this absolutely because knowledge is power. I think we need to ensure whatever system is set up that we have the right deterrents in place to guarantee that the information will not be misused.
I support what the hon. member has brought forward as a motion in Group No. 3. I think it is a good idea. We need to support it.