A Call for Crucial Justice Reform in Canada to Tackle Violent Crime, by Cory Morgan
Commentary
The Liberals are finding ways to hold onto power in the House of Commons despite being a minority. They may be able to maintain this until the scheduled general election in October 2025. However, if the government fails to implement popular policies in the next year, they could face electoral defeat.
One of the policies the electorate is eagerly awaiting is justice reform, and swift action on this issue would certainly grab voters’ attention.
Public safety is not a matter of left or right politics. When people fear for their safety or that of their loved ones, political ideology takes a back seat. The primary concern is ensuring that individuals can go about their daily lives without the risk of harm. It is universally agreed that maintaining public safety is a key responsibility of the government. Issues related to crime prevention and justice have the potential to sway public opinion.
Addressing the root causes of rising violent crime rates is a complex task. Factors such as the opioid crisis, inadequate mental health resources, leniency towards criminals, social challenges in certain communities, and the rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals all need to be tackled in a comprehensive crime reduction strategy.
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In the immediate future, people need to feel that the government is taking action to keep them safe, which necessitates a tougher stance on violent repeat offenders.
Support for taking a strong stance against violent offenders would likely be widespread and welcomed.
The challenge of violent criminals obtaining bail and early releases is partly attributed to the lack of available jail space. The solution, though costly, is straightforward: build more correctional facilities and prioritize those who pose a threat to public safety. Releasing dangerous individuals comes at a higher societal cost than the expense of incarceration.
A significant proportion of violent crimes are committed by a small group of repeat offenders. Keeping these chronic violent offenders incarcerated for longer periods could reduce crime rates. Sometimes, the solutions to complex problems are simpler than they appear.
Election years provide an opportunity for governments to enact meaningful policies that benefit voters, knowing that they will soon face the electorate. Canada urgently needs justice reform, and the party that takes the lead on this issue will likely gain public support.
If the Liberals fail to address this critical issue, the Conservatives should step up and champion it. While Pierre Poilievre has effectively opposed the carbon tax, expanding support requires broader, defining issues, with cracking down on violent crime being a compelling option.
Social unrest is escalating in Canada, and citizens are anxious. While the issue should transcend ideologies, political interventions will be necessary. It is imperative for a party in the House of Commons to champion this cause, not just for political gains, but because it is the right thing to do.
Opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
