When In Rome

Just read this story about the only Canadian on death row in the States whom the Conservatives have decided to stop fighting for. They say it's because it would weaken their tough stance on crime. Opponents say that it's a tacit endorsement of captial punishment (which is against the Canadian way) and that all citizens deserve a reprise from that form of punishment.

"Smith's case has caused an uproar in Canada because the Conservative government's surprise decision last week not to seek clemency for the condemned Canadian reversed long-standing foreign policy"

The prisoner, Ronald Smith, said,

"The whole idea in Canada has been to try and rehabilitate prisoners if possible," Smith said in a prison meeting room. "Why shouldn't I have the opportunity, just because I came down to the United States and killed somebody? What difference does it make? If anybody else deserves an opportunity, then I should as well - I'm a Canadian citizen."

I agree with the Conservative's decision, but not their reason. I believe that if you enter another country you are to abide by and respect their rules and laws. You can not expect to leave Canada but still be blanketed under our justice system. The murder is not being contested so this is not a case of false imprisonment, this is about whether you should suffer the consequences of your actions based on citizenship or geography. I go with geography. I mean, it is rather un-Canadian to export and force our way on others anyway. Aren't you a lot more careful about the law when you go to America? I'm certainly cognizant of these differences, and if you're not, well...guess you end up like Smith.