The co-founder and former Chair of the JoeMac Committee applauded yesterday's appointment of an independent panel to review the operations of Correctional Services Canada (CSC).
“I am confident that this Federal review comes as a result of the lobby efforts of many Canadians – including the JoeMac Committee - who have long-standing concerns with CSC policies and how these impact public safety,” says Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci. “Many people have been angered and frustrated for years as a result of the status quo. News of this review offers hope to many.”
The JoeMac committee was named in memory of Constable Joe MacDonald who was murdered by two career criminals over 10 years ago. Members of the committee included family, friends and a colleague of the slain officer. The committee lobbied for stiffer sentences for the killers who were quickly transferred from maximum to medium security, a process which generally results in expedited release times for offenders.
“This is great news. This is one of the things we were lobbying for, so it is a great relief to see this happen. Personally, I hope they can find the answer as to why there are so many repeat offenders on our streets. We need to feel protected and this is a first step,” said Patti Mathes, a member of JoeMac and sister of the slain officer.
“I know our committee is just one of many groups, individuals and family members who are pleased with news of the review,” says JoeMac member Ray Grenier, who tried to help Constable MacDonald the night he was murdered. “Hopefully this will lead to a federal system that better reflects Canadians’ wish for safer communities.”
Bartolucci says Sudburians should be applauding themselves as well. “The support of the Greater Sudbury Police Service and many others sustained us during times when we felt our concerns were falling on deaf ears by federal politicians. This review is Sudbury’s victory as well – I’m sure of it.”
The independent committee is expected to present its report to the Federal Minister of Public Safety by the end of October, 2007.
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