Whistler’s Answers: October 31, 1985Whistler’s Answers: October 31, 1985
In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1985. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: Capital punishment was prescribed as the punishment for murder, treason, and piracy under Canada’s Criminal Code until it was abolished when Parliament enacted Bill C-48 in 1976. Capital punishment was not technically abolished in Canada until 1999, as certain offences under the National Defence Act still prescribed the death penalty, though no military executions had taken place since 1946.
Question: Do you think capital punishment should be reinstated in Canada?
Denis Beaulieu – Waiter – Whistler
I don’t think they should reinstate capital punishment. They should have a different approach. My mom works for a parole board in Quebec. They should work toward making a better, more rehabilitative environment in prison. You don’t have to kill convicts. I don’t think people think of the possible penalty when they murder someone.
Rose Scharback – Waitress – Whistler
I believe in capital punishment. Dangerous murderers should be wiped out. Why should we support them? There has to be a deterrent for these people, otherwise they won’t think twice about killing someone.
Ted Shred – Manager – Whistler
No. It’s hard to believe (as stated last week by MP Lorne Greenaway) that 80 per cent of the people here believe it should be reinstated. Trudeau said it had been studied and was not found to be a deterrent. If someone wants to kill someone, they don’t think of the consequences.