Reader Mail: HRC double jeopardy
ebt writes in with a short answer to my question about human rights commissions and double jeopardy.
The short answer: no. Double jeopardy applies only to criminal prosecution. The proceedings of HRCs are not criminal in nature. Each government is acting to administer some aspect of its own jurisdiction. Thus the Ontario HRC was acting with respect to a publication in Ontario; the BCHRT with respect to distribution of printed material in B.C.; and the federal HRC in respect to distribution over the internet. Three distinct matters, three distinct actions by three distinct authorities. One stinking scandal.
Well, that does clear things up, and yet fails (at the same time) to reassure. What a bloody mess this HRC setup has turned out to be.
Update: Welcome, Steynians!
