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Government of Canada proposes changes to correctional system
June 16, 2009 -- Ottawa, Ontario -- MP Rob Moore welcomed the introduction today of important legislative changes to the federal corrections and conditional release system.
"Our government is taking a new approach to corrections by putting a higher priority on public safety," said MP Moore. "The reforms proposed in this legislation will put the rights of victims first and increase protection for our families and communities."
Proposed amendments to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act include the following:
- the "protection of society" becoming the paramount principle of corrections and conditional release;
- enshrining in law a victim’s right to participate in parole board hearings;
- authorizing police to arrest, without the need for a warrant, an offender breaking their release conditions; and,
- emphasizing the importance of taking into consideration the seriousness of an offence in National Parole Board decision-making.
"These new changes will ensure that offenders are more accountable for their actions, rehabilitation is more effective, and safety in our communities is paramount in all decisions in the corrections process," said Mr. Moore.
The Corrections and Conditional Release Act provides the legal framework for the correctional system. It was enacted in 1992, replacing the Penitentiary Act and the Parole Act.
Rob Moore is the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and the MP for Fundy Royal.
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William van Geest
Special Assistant - Communications
Office of Rob Moore, M.P. Fundy Royal
(613) 996-2316
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