Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. member opposite for the very good question.
Those of us who are working with community based policing know full well the importance of getting out into the community, especially with respect to young people, to ensure that we deal with them in an effective and meaningful way. We have done it in the past and we continue to do so. It underscores the commitment of not only the police but also the wider community to do the right thing when it comes to young people wherever they live in Canada.
With respect to resources and the kind of commitment that are necessary to deal with young people, the hon. member makes a very good point in terms of the local police agencies having the kind of resources necessary to do the job effectively and well.
When we give the kind of discretion that is being proposed it requires additional work, but I have to tell the hon. member that the policing profession is very professional. It carries out its duties with a great sense of loyalty and dedication, knowing that it must do the right thing, especially for young people. The kinds of training programs that are put in place underscore that kind of commitment to professionalism and dedication.
I am convinced that with the proper and necessary resources the police will act in the appropriate way. They really are unsung heroes. They put their lives on the line daily for all of us. We need to congratulate them repeatedly for the kind of work that they do, especially in the all important youth area.