effort to represent the major faiths.
But, honestly, wouldn't it be better to spend this money on victim services instead?
The total program costs about $6.4 million. That could buy a lot of nonreligious counselling.
I'm sure supporters will argue that chaplains who offer counselling and faith can play a big part in rehabilitation. They could very well be right. But should taxpayers be paying for religious services, however well intentioned, for prisoners?
Personally, I'd rather see religious folks doing voluntary work in prisons.
It strikes me as a better example for prisoners, and, dare I say, a more "Christian" thing to do.
Surely, freedom of religion doesn't extend to taxpayers having to pay for religious services in prison.
Or does it?
Pat Tracy is the editor of the Burnaby NOW newspaper. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/PatTracy or email at [email protected].
