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Local MP Moves to Keep Bernardo in Max Security

Tuesday, 13 June 2023 17:44

By Linda Morgan

Tony Baldinelli plans to table a bill, but Liberal MP Chris Bittle says that may not be the best move

Niagara Falls MP Tony Baldinelli will introduce a private member's bill tomorrow, in hopes of keeping killers like Paul Bernardo in maximum security permanently. 

Yesterday, the Conservative MP tabled a unanimous consent motion yesterday, calling for legislation to return Bernardo to a maximum security facility. 

However, the motion did not get unanimous support. 

Baldinelli tells us he was compelled to act after speaking with the friends of Kristen French, who was one of Bernardo's victims. 

"Everyone was shocked when we heard that decision. Horrified about this. The name Paul Bernardo is synonymous with evil, not only in our community, but throughout Canada. And they were concerned. They approached us to speak out about this. What can you do to make sure something like this never happens again?"

He also says he believes the Liberals could be doing more, including issuing directions to Corrections Canada. 

However, St. Catharines Liberal MP Chris Bittle says while emotions are high, passing such legislation may not be the best way forward. 

"I know Mr. Baldinelli means well and wants to do well by the families, something we all want to do as well. But we have to do things the proper way. If we pass unconstitutional legislation that will be dragged through the courts for the next decade, that's not going to help the families. That's not going to help the situation."

He also says the federal government does not have the authority to issues orders to Corrections Canada, and he thinks Public Safety Minister Marco Mendecino took the right approach in asking Corrections Canada for a review. 
 

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