I am sure that the less informed will be
highly impressed with this attempt to present this "new"
program as being some revolutionary and enlightened approach to
helping youth in trouble with the law. While I strongly support
any initiative that can help correct antisocial behaviour and
lack of respect for the law, I object to political
announcements that are designed to give the public the
impression that a new program has been created that will
achieve that goal.
As a veteran of both the Correction Services
and Community Services ministries, I'm familiar with the
programs from the 70s and 80s. Community service,
victim/offender reconciliation, and restitution were programs
used frequently by enlightened judges. It would appear this
program is little more
that an attempt to revitalize those previous
programs that became entrenched in the Young Offenders Act
shortly after their development.
Changing the name of a program or combining
two or more programs is perfectly acceptable. However, claiming
that the name change has created a new program is
misleading.
The programs from the 70s and 80s also placed
great emphasis on the impact the young person's actions had on
the victim. It eventually became part of the police and
probation officers responsibility to ensure the impact on the
victim is reported, and that the victim is allowed input in any
pre-trial or pre-sentence reports. The article implies that
until this "new" program was introduced, victims have been
ignored by the justice system. This is not
completely true. However, many victims, when
given the choice, opted to not become involved in the system or
the young offender's rehabilitation.
I wish the "new" restorative justice program
the very best of luck. Like its earlier program ancestors, it's
starting with a flourish and trumpets blaring. I only hope that
it does not fade into history because of the lack of financial
backing and support. The support of a few politicians looking
for photo opportunities during the announcement will only last
until the next photo and public announcement opportunity.
Reg Couldridge
Capreol