Freshly elected Cariboo – Prince George MP Todd Doherty had a busy opening session of Parliament. In addition to getting his Ottawa team and office settled, he tabled a trio of private members bills.
The first, Bill C-207 calls for a National Appreciation Day for first responders and veterans.
“It’s something very close to heart for me… we have people that put their lives in danger to make sure communities are safe, those that run towards danger when most run away.” Doherty said
The non-statutory holiday would take place every March 3rd.
The other two bills are directed at the Justice Ministry. Bill C-209 would require Corrections Canada to disclose the details online of a non-parole release for certain high profile offenders, and provide written notice to the victims. The bill also asks for greater community consultation surrounding the offender’s release.
“I think we want to give everyone an opportunity to make amends, to make themselves better, but I think we also want to protect the victims and communities. This would would be for those that are deemed high profile or prolific offenders.” Doherty said
C-209 says the courts will make the final decision on what is considered “high profile”, limiting it them to Schedule 1 offenders.
Lastly, Bill C-208 asks the court system to move to a standardized dating system.
Although private members bills rarely end up becoming law, Doherty is looking forward to one of his bills making it to the floor and being read in the house.
He adds that he has another larger bill in the works for the new year that he is optimistic will receive wide support.
“Three so far, and I’ve got another one that we are working on. It’s a big one; a national strategy for PTSD.”