Article contentDETERRENCE AND SELF-PROTECTION
Re: ‘GLAD YOU SHOT THE GUY’: Premier congratulates homeowner for shooting alleged intruder, online, March 18
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Without examining the Ontario premier’s remarks any further, imagine, for a moment, that this homeowner had no means of defending himself. What might have happened is impossible to predict, though the likelihood is that he or his family members would have been harmed.
The reality is that society functions, in part, on deterrence and on an individual’s readiness to protect themselves. Violent offenders are not disappearing any time soon, and for ordinary, law‑abiding citizens preparedness often becomes the only practical option. Law enforcement plays an essential role, but even they have limitations. It is unrealistic to expect them to prevent every crime before it occurs or to intervene instantly while one is unfolding.
Most homeowners already take reasonable precautions like security cameras, alarm systems and reinforced locks, but, when danger suddenly appears in your living room or bedroom after someone has violently broken through your front or back door, they are obviously not there to talk. In that moment, there is no time for courtesy or hesitation. Every living creature, even the most harmless‑looking cat, will defend itself when cornered. Instinct takes over, and survival becomes the priority.
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This overall situation highlights a broader truth: Personal safety is a shared responsibility. While we rely on law enforcement and community systems, there are moments when individuals must act to protect themselves and their families. A balanced approach, one that respects the law, acknowledges real‑world risks and encourages responsible preparedness, helps create a society in which people can feel both secure and empowered.
ANAS KHAN
BEAUMONT, ALTA
TOONIE TUNES
As gas prices head toward two dollars a litre, diesel, the backbone of transporting goods, is already well past that.
Our sometimes-in-attendance PM refuses to follow Spain, Australia and Ireland in making moves to lower gas prices by reducing fuel taxes.
Meanwhile, he just sent another $51 million to Ukraine?
We Canadian taxpayers are truly the cartoon canary every time Fat Cat Sylvester Carney attempts to swallow us whole!
Voted Liberal last April? As Porky Pig says, “Th-th-th-that’s all, folks!”
EDDY DIGNAN
ROCKLAND
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