OTTAWA—A panel of MPs wants the federal government to look at making criminal pardons automatic for some offenders who have served their sentences. The House of Commons public safety committee also suggests lowering the $631 fee for a pardon and simplifying the often complex process for applicants. The federal government will be asked to consider waiving some criminal records automatically for people who have served their sentence without convicted people having to apply for a pardon. Now Susan cannot find quality employment, and she cannot afford the cost of a criminal record suspension,” Long said. In response to a federal consultation, a large majority said the $631 fee posed a substantial hurdle for people trying to turn their lives around.

Source: thestar January 01, 2019 23:37 UTC