Commentary
Manitoba NDP MLA Billie Cross landed herself in hot water during a debate over protections for property owners by citing advice given to retail workers: “they want to steal, let them steal.”
Speaking during an Oct. 29 debate on Bill 210, Cross argued that property was replaceable and insurance existed, making confrontation over theft an unnecessary risk. The bill concerns civil lawsuits by criminal trespassers against people who own or control property; it would not change the Criminal Code rules governing self-defence.
Cross subsequently acknowledged expressing herself poorly, apologized for the confusion, and said theft was wrong and should have consequences. That clarification matters. It would be unfair to suggest she endorses stealing….