1/ Fictional thread: “Mr. Sankoff, you’ve just been appointed AG Ontario. What’s your first order of business?” “Well, I will stop 720 Bay from taking such crazy positions that the SCC stomps all over them!” [Cue laugh track].
2/ “what about charges for Randy Hillier?” Well, I think they are necessary. He’s made himself the leader of an illegal “protest” that has caused real harm, ignored legal limits and shown contempt for judges and the public alike. He should face the consequences.
3/ “But he’s a member of Provincial Parliament! You can’t do that!” A: Why? He is subject to the law just like anyone else.
4/ “But he’ll turn it into a political show trial and take the governments to task.” A: I’m okay with that. If he has a valid defence, more power to him. But I’m confident the courts can take proper control and make a valid decision.
5/ “but a jury will never convict him.” A: I’m not so sure. But there’s no need to find out. We can charge him summarily, and have it resolved by a judge.
6/ “But the publicity might inspire his supporters to do more damage!” A: We cannot run a functional state in perpetual fear of those who might object. Who the hell runs this country anyway?
7/ “But he’ll just become a martyr for this cause, and even more influential!” A: I think it’s the opposite. Right now he is attracting followers because he speaks with no risks. A conviction might cause people to see that he’s just refuses to abide by laws he doesn’t like.
8/ “But he’ll just get a slap on the wrist.” A: I plan to try him in Ottawa. The victim impact statements will go on for days and allow the community to get some catharsis.
9/ “And I’m far from convinced it’s a slap on the wrist. He has encouraged and led this illegal movement that caused massive economic and psychological harm. I will certainly be asking for a stiff penalty.” FIN
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