Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The new YCJA has certainly made a difference in the way we administer justice for youth not only in the NWT, but right across the country. The Member pointed out and I think in his statement earlier he talked about some of the differences between the former YOA and the new YCJA. Obviously, even before sentencing, before we even get that far, there are options that the police have at their disposal. The idea is to try to steer youth away from the formal court system. We have a number of options. There are options right through all steps of the process, including sentencing. Custody is discouraged, except in the most violent cases, the most serious cases. So it has made an impact and, as the Member has indicated, it's almost three years now since the implementation of that bill in April, the first of '03. Thank you.
Brendan Bell on Question 447-15(4): Youth Criminal Justice Act And The Treatment Of Chronic Young Offenders
In the Legislative Assembly on February 22nd, 2006. See this statement in context.
Return To Question 447-15(4): Youth Criminal Justice Act And The Treatment Of Chronic Young Offenders
Question 447-15(4): Youth Criminal Justice Act And The Treatment Of Chronic Young Offenders
Item 6: Oral Questions
February 21st, 2006
Page 1230
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