Latimer’s case raises deeper concerns

OTTAWA - The Green Party expressed concern regarding the National Parole Board’s decision to refuse Robert Latimer day parole. The Greens have called for a re-evaluation of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and the purpose and principles of sentencing outlined in the Criminal Code as well as greater governmental assistance for the disabled and their caregivers.

“This tragic case should lead us to reform our justice system and begin to provide meaningful support for disabled Canadians,” said Green Party leader Elizabeth May. “If there is no threat to the safety of our communities, a low-risk offender should be given the opportunity to reintegrate into society. The protection of society must always be the paramount consideration in the corrections process.”

The National Parole Board, which operates under the Corrections and Conditional Release Act, is charged with the task of ensuring that every Board decision is based on the risk presented by the offender and is consistent with the goal of promoting the protection of the public.

“The Latimer case demonstrates once again why we need to re-evaluate the principles governing our justice system and question the use of mandatory minimum sentencing,” said Justice critic Jared Giesbrecht. “The successful integration of offenders is integral to preventing crime and maintaining a just, peaceful, and safe society. It is primarily within the community that low risk offenders demonstrate their commitment to abide by the law.”

The Green Party also calls for the expansion of home support and home care programs and assisted-living services to support people with chronic care needs, including many seniors who wish to stay in their own homes and communities.

“Canada can do much more to help provide community-based support for the disabled and their caregivers,” said Health Promotion critic Blake Poland. “Placing the blame on a single person does little more than distract us from the systematic factors that continue to put others at risk. Meaningful support for caregivers must be a priority if we are to avoid putting others in the same position as Latimer.”

The Green Party has consistently opposed mandatory minimum sentencing, supported the principles of restorative justice, and argued that a focus upon restoring offenders to whole, contributing members of society is the best way to prevent crime.