It's Political with Althia Raj Unpacking the parties’ promises on fighting crime
Apr 16, 2025
Irvin Waller, an Emeritus professor of criminology at the University of Ottawa, and Anthony Doob, Emeritus professor at the University of Toronto, dive into pressing crime narratives. They discuss the controversial use of the notwithstanding clause by Pierre Poilievre for mandatory sentences, highlighting the tension between public safety and civil liberties. The experts critique ineffective political narratives and advocate for community-based strategies over pure incarceration, emphasizing the need for evidence-based discussions on crime reduction.
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Notwithstanding Clause for Consecutive Sentences
- Pierre Poilievre plans to invoke the notwithstanding clause to enforce consecutive life sentences without parole.
- This unprecedented federal use of the clause prioritizes victims' rights over prisoners' Charter rights.
Risks of Using the Notwithstanding Clause
- Invoking the notwithstanding clause to impose harsh sentences risks eroding rights over time.
- It sets a dangerous precedent that may lead to further rights suspensions beyond violent offenders.
Effective Crime Prevention Strategies
- Violent crime rose about 50% since 2014, unrelated to incarceration policies.
- Prevention programs targeting youth and parenting are far more effective than increased policing or incarceration.