Getting Things Done: Tougher Sentences for Dangerous Offenders
by Peter Van Loan, MP York- Simcoe

According to Donna Wice, President of the Historical Society, about 500 copies of the Farms of Innisfil book have been pre-ordered photo by Michelle Minnoch

The residents of York-Simcoe have told me what they want from their government and what their priorities are. When it comes to community safety, this government is making your priorities, our priorities. In the election campaign I said we would tackle crime - and we have followed through on that promise!

The new Conservative Government recently introduced a new law that would provide tougher sentences and more effective management of individuals convicted of dangerous offences.

The proposed legislation will put the onus on offenders convicted of a third violent or sexual offence to prove that they should not be declared dangerous offenders. Those who fail to do so will be subject to an indeterminate jail sentence with no eligibility for parole for seven years. As well, the legislation would allow additional restrictions and conditions to be placed on the actions of criminals once they are finally released.

There is nothing more heartbreaking than when a criminal who is known to be dangerous gets further opportunities to hurt someone. It is time to implement effective preventative measures to safeguard communities and children from individuals identified as dangerous or high-risk offenders, and at the same time, to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to deal with these individuals. This government is serious about getting tough on crime.

This new legislation is the latest in a serious of practical, effective steps taken by Canada's New Government to tackle crime:

-- Require jail time (not house arrest) for violent crimes;

- Mandatory minimum sentences for gun crimes;

- Allocating $161 million to hire an additional 1,000 RCMP officers; and

- Crack down on street racing;

We will be introducing further reforms in the months ahead.

Liberals Obstructing Justice Reforms

Unfortunately all of these tough on crime initiatives are being held up and delayed by the Liberals in Parliamentary committee. I urge members of the opposition to put communities ahead of politics and work with the government to ensure a quick passage for these tough-on-crime measures. Families and taxpayers in York-Simcoe want action, not obstructionism.

Canada's New Government is committed to making our streets safer; to making our communities secure; and to ensuring our families and children will be protected from repeat, sexual and violent offenders.