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Decentralized Democracy

Senate Bill

Bill S-281

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
November 08, 2023
An Act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Act (parole review)
  • This bill, called S-281, is an amendment to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act in Canada. It states that for offenders who are serving a sentence for first or second-degree murder, parole will be reviewed according to specific time frames set by law, rather than being based on the offender's application. This means that once the Parole Board has decided not to grant day or full parole, or has canceled or terminated parole for the offender, their parole will be reviewed again based on these time frames. The full text of the bill can be found on the Senate of Canada's website.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument in Favor of Bill S-281: One possible steelman argument in favor of Bill S-281 is that it prioritizes public safety by ensuring that offenders convicted of first degree murder or second degree murder are subject to stricter parole review processes. By amending the Corrections and Conditional Release Act to remove the ability for these offenders to make further parole applications if their initial applications are denied or if their parole is cancelled or terminated, the bill aims to prevent potentially dangerous individuals from being released back into the community prematurely. Supporters of this bill may argue that the current parole system can be flawed and may not adequately consider the risks posed by offenders convicted of serious crimes such as murder. By implementing statutory time frames for parole review, the bill ensures that the decision to grant or deny parole is made based on objective criteria and not solely on the initiative of the offender. Furthermore, proponents of this bill may argue that it provides a sense of justice for the victims and their families. By limiting the opportunities for parole, the bill acknowledges the severity of the crimes committed and the need for accountability. It may be argued that this approach aligns with the principles of proportionality and deterrence, as it sends a strong message that individuals convicted of murder will face stricter consequences and longer periods of incarceration. Overall, supporters of Bill S-281 may argue that it strikes a balance between the rights of offenders and the safety of the public. By implementing stricter parole review processes for individuals convicted of murder, the bill aims to prevent potential harm and provide a sense of justice for the victims and their families.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing Bill S-281: While the intention behind Bill S-281 may be to ensure public safety and prevent offenders convicted of first degree murder or second degree murder from being granted parole, it is important to consider the potential negative consequences of this amendment to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act. One of the main concerns with this amendment is that it limits the ability of offenders to apply for parole, even if they have shown significant progress in their rehabilitation and pose a low risk to society. By removing the option for offenders to apply for parole, it denies them the opportunity to demonstrate their readiness for reintegration into the community. Furthermore, this amendment undermines the principle of individualized justice. Each case should be evaluated on its own merits, taking into account the specific circumstances and progress of the offender. By imposing a blanket restriction on parole applications for offenders convicted of murder, it fails to consider the potential for rehabilitation and reformation. Another concern is that this amendment may lead to overcrowding in correctional facilities. Without the possibility of parole, offenders may serve their entire sentence in prison, which could strain the resources and capacity of the correctional system. This could have a negative impact on the overall effectiveness of the rehabilitation and reintegration programs offered within the correctional system. Additionally, this amendment may perpetuate a punitive approach to criminal justice, rather than a rehabilitative one. By denying offenders the opportunity for parole, it focuses solely on punishment rather than addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior and providing support for rehabilitation. In conclusion, while the intention behind Bill S-281 may be to prioritize public safety, it is important to consider the potential negative consequences of limiting parole applications for offenders convicted of murder. By denying the opportunity for rehabilitation and reintegration, it may undermine the principles of individualized justice and perpetuate a punitive approach to criminal justice.
Senate Second Reading
  • Nov. 8, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read
Senate First Reading
  • Nov. 8, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • Passed