I am sure most constituents here in Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry do not think organized crime is an issue in our area. Very few constituents list it as a priority issue when replying to surveys. There is however, a growing concern among some residents about the perceived increase in crime rates for certain offences here in our riding. I share these concerns.

Some of you have noted more violent crimes are taking place in your own community. Usually these crimes are committed by people under the influence of, or by someone involved in the sale of illegal drugs.  

The Criminal Intelligence Service of Canada estimates there are 750 organized crime gangs in Canada. Law enforcement officials describe an organized crime gang as 3 or more individuals associated for the purpose of carrying out illegal activities. We would be naïve to think that organized crime gangs are not operating right here in SD&SG. We have a huge contraband problem, smuggling is rampant, identity theft, gambling and prostitution is taking place, and there is a growing illegal drug market here in Eastern Ontario.

All of these activities attract organized crime gangs. They are attracted by the huge profits available from these illicit activities. At first they usually operate on a part time basis, operating from a neighbouring urban centre, until the business grows and it is profitable enough to set up permanently in the rural village or town. The people involved in these gangs are ruthless. They prey on our youth, the vulnerable, and the less fortunate members of our communities. Not only do they exploit our citizens by addicting them to their various illegal activities, they often entice them into a life of crime.

Our Government has decided enough is enough and it is time to address the situation before it gets even worse. On August 4th Justice Minister Rob Nicholson introduced new regulations to fight organized crime and their illegal activities. These new measures include; tougher bail conditions for those involved in organized crime, eliminating conditional sentences for organized crime offences, making all murders committed by organized crime first degree offences, and creating new offences directed specifically at organized crime. These are just a few of the many regulations Minister Nicholson has put in place to seriously curtail this terrible blight on Canadian society.

I am proud to say once again that our "Tough on Crime" agenda is alive and well.

Guy Lauzon
Member of Parliament
Stormont-Dundas- South Glengarry