House of Commons photoWon his last election, in 2006, with 42% of the vote.
National Parole Board October 23rd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, it is an important principle to understand that the National Parole Board makes decisions based on public safety issues with the best advice and information it has available at the time. It is very important to recognize that a gradual release program is the most effective way to guarantee public safety.
National Parole Board October 23rd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, as I have said a number of times, the National Parole Board is an arm's length organization. Were I to interfere with its decisions, members opposite would be telling me that it was ministerial interference.
The reality is that the National Parole Board is guided by the interests of public safety. Safety is served by a gradual release system and that is what it pursues.
Correctional Service October 23rd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, the Union of Solicitor General Employees has brought the issue to the attention of the management of CSC and the knives have been attached to the tables.
Correctional Service October 23rd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, I believe the entire Chamber is aware that I am very concerned for the employees of the Canadian corrections service. I think they do good work. I support them regularly. I will take under consideration the suggestion of the member.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superannuation Act October 23rd, 1997
moved for leave to introduce Bill C-12, an act to amend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superannuation Act.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)
Justice October 22nd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, again, I believe the meeting is scheduled for some time next week.
It is the first time that the corrections service has been able to reveal its report. Until this point, the RCMP was still investigating.
Justice October 22nd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for his question. I know how deeply he feels about this.
The member is aware, I believe, that arrangements have been made for the commissioner of corrections to visit the region, to meet with the family and also to meet with the member at the family's request.
Justice October 22nd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, it is in the interest of public safety to gradually in a controlled way release inmates from the system, because the vast majority of people leave the system. It is that simple.
The success rate in terms of recidivism is much better in the case of a controlled and gradual release. That is a fact.
Justice October 22nd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate very much not only the content but the tone of the question.
The national parole board operates independently and at arm's length from the government. The Government of Canada and the solicitor general are accountable for the decisions but we do not make them.
Justice October 21st, 1997
Mr. Speaker, five months ago 52,000 people in Fredericton re-elected me. I am accountable to them. I am accountable for the National Parole Board. It is operating in the interests of public safety.
The people who are released through the system are less likely to reoffend. It is in the interest of public safety.