ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — I read with interest the letter from Robin Reid (“Time to Reconsider the Death Penalty?”) in the Feb. 9 edition of The Telegram.
I share Robin’s frustration with the matter of Canadian taxpayers footing the bill to keep murderers in jail for 25+ years.
I have to say, however, having given this issue some considerable thought over the years, that I am fundamentally opposed to the death penalty, regardless of the crime.
I say that although it is admittedly difficult to be consistent in the face of the recent slayings of worshippers at a Quebec mosque or the killing and dismemberment of eight men in Toronto.
In my opinion there is never justification for taking the life of another human being. I realize my “small” liberal bias is showing here, but so be it.
I believe that to take the life of another human being for murder is to reduce us to their level and that, to me, is unacceptable.
I for one am proud and happy to live in a country like Canada that does not have the death penalty, unlike countries such as China or the U.S.A. who shoot, poison or hang their citizens, seemingly sometimes at the drop of a hat.
In so many cases evidence later comes to light that proves the innocence of the person who has been imprisoned or even executed by the state — that however, is another discussion.
Marvin Barnes
St. John’s
