Every day, firefighters, paramedics, and police officers put themselves in harm's way to keep Canadians safe. They deserve to know that the law is on their side.
Today, at Station 9, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, joined by representatives of the Government of Manitoba including the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, the Honourable Matt Wiebe and local MLA and Minister of Advanced Education and Training, the Honourable Renée Cable, as well as the Mayor of Winnipeg, Scott Gillingham, highlighted the newly introduced Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, a sweeping package of reforms to make bail laws stricter, sentencing tougher, and communities safer.
The proposed legislation introduces more than 80 clauses proposing significant changes to Canada's bail and sentencing framework. Among them are new measures designed to better protect first responders from the disturbing rise in violence and threats they face on the job.
Key measures to protect first responders
- New aggravating factor at sentencing for offenders who commit violent acts and other crimes against police, firefighters, and paramedics in the course of their duties.
- Tougher bail provisions for violent and repeat offenders, including new reverse-onus provisions that make detention the starting point for certain serious offences.
- Crackdowns on organized crime to keep communities safe from those who repeatedly put lives at risk.
These reforms build on joint efforts by federal, provincial, and territorial governments to strengthen community safety and ensure a criminal justice system that works for victims, protects first responders, and strengthens public confidence.
Criminal law and procedure, including the Criminal Code provisions that govern the law of bail is a federal responsibility. Provincial governments are responsible for the administration of justice. That includes investments in police, crown prosecutors, bail courts, jails and victim supports.
A stronger, safer Canada
The Bail and Sentencing Reform Act is part of the Government of Canada's broader commitment to modernize the Criminal Code and keep Canadians safe. Upcoming reforms will further strengthen victims' rights, better protect people facing sexual and intimate partner violence, and safeguard children from horrific crimes.
Together, these changes will ensure the justice system does what Canadians expect it to do: protect our communities, uphold victims' rights, and keep dangerous offenders off the streets.
