Wow. This is how it's supposed to be done.

Nice move on the part of the Liberals.  Instead of just raising points in the House which is pretty ineffective, ex-Justice Minister as well as lawyer has been having discussions with Quebec's justice minister, Jean-Marc Fournier concerning the omnibus crime Bill.  Quebec has objected to several sections of the Bill.

Not only does this move show support for Quebec, it offers a great opportunity to clarify Liberal objections to parts of the Bill, something difficult to do in the House where scripted CON notes make true debate impossible.  How can anyone seriously respond to charges that debating any section of the Bill means you are soft on crime, love criminals, or don"t care about victims of crime?

The Liberals are also showing that they can work with provinces and recognize how federal Bills can impact upon each one.  Shows respect and an understanding of provincial issues, contrasting starkly with Nicholson's failure to meet with Fournier despite requests.

Cotler plans to take several of Fournier's amendments to the justice committee's review of the Bill.

Quebec Conservative Senator Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu accused Fournier and the Quebec government of being "soft on crime", something Rae dismissed as "ridiculous."

It's not about being hard or soft on crime, it's about being smart on crime, Rae suggested in French.

Good.  Needs to be said over and over and over.  Pro-active Liberals...about damn time.