Madam Speaker, I believe there is a need to do some public education in this regard because there is concern for the businesses that operate. As we know, the cost of all merchandise and goods that are shoplifted are passed on to the owners and subsequently to the public. At the same time, if we charged every accused person on the first instance, our court costs will be horrendous. There is a view that there is still an informal process to deal with offences, particularly first-time offenders. Often, in small communities, for instance, the parents resolve many matters themselves. In the time I was growing up, issues were often dealt with between families, without resorting to the RCMP and authorities. There is a view that many first-time offenders, when they are dealt with through the parents, are often brought to realize they were wrong and they do not commit offences after the first instance. A great public service is rendered, in such cases. I believe that we need to do some public education in this regard. We will be asking the department to consult with the RCMP and the business community to discuss what kind of a cooperative approach can be taken, keeping in mind the concerns of the business community, but also the situation with the young people. Thank you.
Stephen Kakfwi on Question 35-12(6): Stealing Considered Illegal In The Nwt
In the Legislative Assembly on April 7th, 1994. See this statement in context.
Further Return To Question 35-12(6): Stealing Considered Illegal In The Nwt
Question 35-12(6): Stealing Considered Illegal In The Nwt
Item 5: Oral Questions
April 6th, 1994
Page 42
See context to find out what was said next.