Mr. Royal Galipeau (Ottawa—Orléans, CPC): Mr. Speaker, it seems that Correctional Service Canada wants to relocate its Ottawa parole office.

It is my understanding that one of the proposed sites is located in a densely populated residential area near downtown.

Last night more than 100 residents packed the local meeting hall to express their concerns and ask that Correctional Service Canada reject this site.

Would the Minister of Public Safety advise the House about the government’s plans with respect to the 1010 Somerset site.

Hon. Peter Van Loan (Minister of Public Safety, CPC): Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Ottawa—Orléans for his ongoing interest in keeping the community safe from crime.

We are committed to the overall safety and security of Canadians. Correctional Service Canada is committed to ensuring that the new location for the Ottawa parole office is one that is appropriate in keeping the community safe. Part of that ensures consulting the community to understand its views and to understand the local issues. That has happened and the message has been loud and clear.

The 1010 site is not an appropriate site for a correctional facility of this type. As a result, I have asked Correctional Service Canada to reconsider it, which I understand it is doing.