Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for Don Valley West for his question, which really goes to the heart of the one of the critical objectives of this bill.
Victims are concerned that their safety is not being specifically taken into consideration by review boards when they make dispositions. Victims are also concerned that they often have no way of knowing if and when a not criminally responsible accused is given access to the community. They can frequently be concerned, indeed afraid, that they will unexpectedly run into that individual without being adequately prepared or without the opportunity to avoid the encounter.
The proposed legislation would enhance the safety of victims and would provide an opportunity for greater involvement of victims in the Criminal Code's mental disorder regime. The legislation would help ensure that victims are notified, upon request, when an NCR accused is discharged. It would allow non-communication orders between an NCR accused and the victim. It would ensure that the safety of victims is considered when decisions are being made about NCR accused persons. The proposed legislation would build on actions that have already been taken to further advance the interests of victims of crime. These actions include the creation of the Office of the Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime and the introduction of legislation to double the victim surcharge.