The issue really highlights the deficits of the sacrament of reconciliation, which is abused when it is viewed as having some magical or superstitious power, a get out of jail free card.  If we think that by following all the rubrics and laws we can perfect ourselves, while still concealing evil or spiritual sickness from the light, we are mocking God and the sacrament.  If someone refuses to go to confession unless guaranteed they get to avoid the natural consequences of the sin, this is not interior repentance. Canon law as described by the current article, is oriented to maintaining the power of the clergy, not towards interior conversion and freedom.  I have always been concerned as well that the sacrament does not provide any means for reconciliation between the sinner and the victim of the sin.  This is a major omission in understanding of sin and forgiveness.