Federal government moves to end early release and increase offender accountability: says McLeod

June 15, 2010

Ottawa – Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops – Thompson – Cariboo asked the following question today to the Minister of Public Safety during Question Period.

“Mr. Speaker, earlier today the Minister of Public Safety tabled the Act to End Early Release and Increase Offender Accountability. As Canadians know, this government is committed to protect the safety and security of all Canadians. 

This Act will give victims a greater voice and will ensure that the ‘protection of society’ principle is the guiding principle of corrections and conditional release. Can the Minister of Public Safety explain how this Act will continue our government’s strong commitment to the safety and protection of our communities?”

Among the key reforms, the proposed legislation would abolish the current system of Accelerated Parole Review, which allows those convicted of “non-violent” offenses to obtain day parole after serving one-sixth of their sentence and full parole after serving one-third.

“The current system allows white-collar criminals back on our streets much earlier than Canadians expect, given the impact of such crimes on victims,” said McLeod. “We are taking action to put a stop to this practice, which undermines Canadians’ faith in our justice and corrections systems.”

The proposed amendments to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act would also:

- make the protection of society the paramount principle of the system;
- enshrine in law the right of victims to participate in parole board hearings, and keep          victims better informed about the behaviour and handling of offenders;
- move toward a system of earned parole, by increasing offender responsibility and accountability and strengthening the disciplinary system;
- authorize police to arrest an offender breaking release conditions, without having to obtain a warrant;
- emphasize the importance of considering the seriousness of an offence in National Parole Board decision-making.

“This legislation responds to the concerns of victims’ groups and police associations across the country. As well, it also responds to the Correctional Service of Canada’s Independent Review Panel’s recommendation to work towards a system of earned parole,” concluded McLeod.