MP Elizabeth May - Mandatory minimums in Bill C-10 Omnibus Crime Bill

Ms. Elizabeth May (Saanich—Gulf Islands, GP): Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend for a very good, clear and articulate description of the problems that I think all members on the opposition benches have with Bill C-10.

I would have liked to have been able to pose this to a government member but I have not had an opportunity in this round. I am baffled by the fact that virtually every criminologist and expert who has looked at the issue of minimum mandatory sentences has concluded that they do not work. In fact, a recent article in the Criminology & Public Policy begins with this sentence:

"Mandatory minimums are a classic instance of criminology and public policy marching in different directions."

Every member of this House wants to end crime and every member wants to protect victims.

I would like to ask the member if he has been able to find any expert evidence that would support the government's approach.

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[mariss711]

Mandatory minimums give the private prisons a lot more money, thats the real reason for them. Why do you think Stephen Harper was building prisons even before the introduction of this bill. It is becoming apparent that the federal government has an agenda to imprison more people.

[mlca1000]

A friend of mine works in a steel shop that builds doors for Canadian prisons. He has been getting a lot of contracts as of late. Building prisons before the bill has passed. Sounds to me like people be dammed! Harper will force it. We the public should not put up with this.

[peterpotpie]

Just what we need in Canada - more prisons. And the Canadian people will just let Harper fill those prisons with our children.

[flipy3]

@mariss711 Can you link proofs? I find this scary.