Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise and acknowledge the extremely important work of the Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies as it celebrates Elizabeth Fry week from May 4 to 10.
The theme of this year's E. Fry week is alternatives to incarceration. The society hopes to raise awareness and education regarding women involved in the criminal justice system.
The E. Fry society has a history of hard work and dedicated service in communities across this country. It provides much needed services in support for women who have come into contact with the justice system.
By focusing on alternatives to incarceration the society hopes to encourage the public to examine productive community responses to the criminal justice system. It is its hope and mine that this type of proactive focus will encourage the development of and support for community based alternatives to incarceration, particularly for non-violent offenders.
Please join me in supporting the very important work of Elizabeth Fry societies across Canada.