Pubdate: Sun, 07 May 2006
Source: Province, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 The Province
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/theprovince/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/476
Author: Jodie Giesz-Ramsay
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?199 (Mandatory Minimum Sentencing)

EXPANDING PRISON INDUSTRY WON'T REDUCE CRIME

Criminologists and studies worldwide prove mandatory minimum 
sentences do not work.

The U.S. is a perfect example of how mandatory minimums and prison 
expansion cost far more than the taxpayers and government can afford, 
and create a corrupt, over-financed and unaccountable industry.

The enormous expense of housing people in cells, paying for their 
food, and for the guards to watch them, is beyond what Canada can support.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper won't even disclose the projected costs 
for the jail building plans. How do the Conservatives expect to pay 
for a prison boom after making such bold promises on child care?

I pray that Canadians will pressure their MPs to not support this 
proposal or the Conservatives' U.S.-influenced agenda.

It's a cost that Canada can simply not afford -- financially, 
ethically or morally.

Jodie Giesz-Ramsay

Vancouver
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman