Mr. Speaker, today is the 40th anniversary of the National Parole Board, and I would like to pay tribute to this institution.
It has undergone many changes over the years. Today, board members are selected by a process which determines the best qualified candidates; they are given the best possible training.
Parole decisions are no longer made in secret. Board members' performances are evaluated and they are guided by a code of ethics.
The parole board we have today is one that makes decisions in a professional manner. It enjoys an international reputation, and is made up of close to 2,000 parole officers, assisted by numerous NGOs such as the Salvation Army, and the John Howard, Elizabeth Fry and St. Leonard's societies.
I would like to take advantage of this anniversary to tell the members and employees of the board that they have every right to be proud of their accomplishments in ensuring the safety and protection of all Canadians.