Pubdate: Tue, 22 Nov 2005 Source: Chilliwack Progress (CN BC) Copyright: 2005 The Chilliwack Progress Contact: http://www.theprogress.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/562 Author: Robert Freeman Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?199 (Mandatory Minimum Sentencing) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada) B.C. GOVERNMENT PUTS LAWBREAKERS ON NOTICE B.C.'s concerns about crystal meth production, the release of repeat sex offenders, gang violence and conditional sentences for violent crimes is now part of a national action plan aimed at restoring confidence in the justice system, B.C. Solicitor General John Les announced last week. "British Columbians are tired of opening up their newspapers and feeling that justice is not being done," Les said in a news release. "When people feel that they're not being adequately protected from criminals, whether as a result of inappropriate sentencing or insufficient laws, we have a duty to act." Les met with justice officials from across the country earlier this month in Whitehorse where agreement was reached with the federal government on key justice issues. As a result, Ottawa will: Review regulations and enforcement around the bulk importation of precursors used to make crystal meth, such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine; Review current procedures for releasing high-risk sex offenders on a priority basis; Restrict the use of conditional sentences for serious and violent offences through the proposed Bill C-70; Change the criminal code to increase mandatory minimum sentences for certain firearms-related offences, and add new firearms offences to the criminal code. "B.C. is putting lawbreakers on notice," Les said. "We'll continue to advocate for tougher penalties under federal law and also step up action at the community level to ensure we're combating crime on our streets and in our neighbourhoods." Chilliwack held a public forum on crystal meth last month, and city officials are awaiting approval of funding grants from the province to continue the work of a task force assembled to combat the problem here. The B.C. government also announced it will host a provincial congress in Vancouver on Dec. 2 to discuss illicit drugs, repeat offenders and gang violence. Over 150 community delegates have been invited to hear from experts and provide input on enhancing public safety initiatives. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake