Stephen Harper boldly promised to pass an omnibus crime bill within 100 days (Globe & Mail) of his party winning a majority in the upcoming election.  The Cons have promised to focus in on organized crime, ending house arrest for certain crimes, toughening up on youth offenders, allowing victims to sue supporters of terrorism in Canadian courts, streamlining complex trials, etc., etc., etc.

Michael Ignatieff, for his part, said his party would consider reversing reforms (Toronto Sun) that have already been implemented under the Harper Government, including the Truth in Sentencing Act, if the Liberals were elected. Ignatieff said such reversals could save significant money, eliminating the need for the construction of “U.S. style mega-prisons.”

Meanwhile, Jack Layton made a campaign stop in Surrey, B.C., reportedly affected by “skyrocketing” youth violence, touting anti-crime measures the NDP would put in place (Brandon Sun) if elected, including 2,500 new police officers nationwide. Layton differentiated his strategy from Harper’s based on his attention to crime prevention. Even the left is compelled to present a tough-on-crime front during election season.