MP CADMAN INTRODUCES MOTION CALLING FOR REVIEW OF PARDON SYSTEM

05/14/2010

Ottawa, Ontario – Dona Cadman, Member of Parliament for Surrey North introduced a motion in the House of Commons today which calls for a review of the pardon system and recommendations to ensure that the public’s safety is always put first. With the introduction of “pardons” legislation earlier this week, this motion will be the framework for the debate when the issue goes before committee.

“Canadians have sent a clear message; the current pardon system needs to be reformed” remarked Cadman. “This motion will steer the debate on the issue of pardons so that public safety remains the top priority”.

Under the current system “pardons” are granted almost automatically. Bill C-23 would make them available under more limited circumstances – much more limited, in cases of serious crime – and impossible for anyone convicted of a sex offence against a child.

The proposed legislation would:

·         replace the term “pardons” with a more restrictive and narrowly worded “record suspension”;

·         make those convicted of sexual offences against minors ineligible for a record suspension;

·         make those who have been convicted of more than three indictable offences ineligible for a record suspension; and

·         increase the period of ineligibility for a record suspension – to five years for summary conviction offences, and to ten years for indictable offences.

Cadman’s motion will require the Public Safety and National Security Committee to review the system and recommend changes that would ensure the public’s safety is always put first. “Canadians have asked for reforms to the pardon system and the Government has acted” stated Cadman. “My motion will ensure that the debate around this reform puts the rights of law abiding Canadians above the rights of criminals.