Discussion · Private Members' Business
Jean-Denis Garon Bloc Québécois
“I support the families of victims, but I worry this bill breaks the rules of our Constitution. The Supreme Court has already ruled that extending parole wait times is unconstitutional. I want the sponsor to explain how this bill could survive a court challenge.”
“Mr. Speaker, obviously we understand the intent of the bill, and our hearts go out to the victims’ families. I am not a legal expert, but as a parliamentarian, I wonder whether this bill might not lead to constitutional challenges. From what I understand, the Supreme Court has already ruled on the constitutionality of extending the minimum period before someone can be released on parole. Unless I am mistaken, I believe that was ruled unconstitutional. I am wondering how the bill before us today could be deemed constitutional by the Supreme Court, given previous rulings. I would like my colleague to clarify that.”
Official Hansard
Mr. Speaker, obviously we understand the intent of the bill, and our hearts go out to the victims’ families. I am not a legal expert, but as a parliamentarian, I wonder whether this bill might not lead to constitutional challenges. From what I understand, the Supreme Court has already ruled on the constitutionality of extending the minimum period before someone can be released on parole. Unless I am mistaken, I believe that was ruled unconstitutional. I am wondering how the bill before us today could be deemed constitutional by the Supreme Court, given previous rulings. I would like my colleague to clarify that.