Poilievre says he’ll use notwithstanding clause to ensure multiple-murderers die in prison

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is making headlines with his bold stance on ensuring multiple-murderers serve their full sentences behind bars. Poilievre has vowed to become the first Canadian prime minister to override Charter rights by invoking the notwithstanding clause, a move that has sparked controversy and debate across the country.

In a recent video promoting his policy, Poilievre emphasized the importance of proportionate punishment for heinous crimes. “If you kill multiple people, you should spend the rest of your life behind bars,” he stated. “Multiple-murderers should only come out in a box.” This strong stance reflects the Conservative belief that justice must be served for the most serious offenders.

Currently, individuals convicted of first-degree murder in Canada are ineligible for parole for 25 years. However, a sentencing provision introduced by the Harper Conservatives in 2011 allowed judges to impose consecutive 25-year blocks of parole ineligibility for offenders who committed multiple first-degree murders. This provision was designed to ensure that individuals convicted of multiple murders would face significant consequences for their actions.

Unfortunately, this provision was deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court of Canada in 2022, citing concerns about the degrading nature of consecutive periods of parole ineligibility. In response, Poilievre has proposed using the notwithstanding clause, Section 33 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, to override this decision and ensure that multiple-murderers serve their full sentences.

The notwithstanding clause allows parliament to override certain portions of the Charter for five-year terms when passing legislation. While this power is not to be taken lightly, Poilievre believes it is necessary to uphold justice for victims and their families. By invoking the notwithstanding clause, Poilievre aims to prevent judicial review of legislation related to parole eligibility for multiple-murderers.

Poilievre’s commitment to tough sentencing measures is further demonstrated by his previous election promises, including a proposed “three-strikes-and-you’re-out law.” This law would prevent criminals convicted of three serious offences from receiving bail, probation, parole, or house arrest. Repeat offenders would be classified as “dangerous offenders” and required to serve a minimum sentence of 10 years to life behind bars for their third offence.

As Poilievre continues to advocate for stricter sentencing measures, the debate over the use of the notwithstanding clause in this context is likely to intensify. Whether or not Poilievre’s proposal becomes a reality, his unwavering dedication to justice for victims of violent crimes is clear.