Statement by Member of Parliament Viviane Lapointe on Canada’s New Sentencing and Bail Reform Measures

Today, I was asked by the Minister of Justice to stand with him as he announced the new measures the government is taking to keep our communities safe and protect Canadians.

Minister Fraser shared details on our plan to strengthen Canada’s Criminal Code to keep violent and repeat offenders out of our communities. These measures target those accused of serious crimes such as human trafficking, violent assault and sexual assault.

The new measures will require courts to weigh serious factors such as random or unprovoked violence, outstanding charges, and the presence of weapons when making bail decisions. They also create tougher penalties for crimes targeting first responders and organized retail theft.

Victims and their families, as well as first responders, retail businesses, and frontline workers should never have to face the risk and trauma that come with violent or repeat crimes.

These reforms are in line with the changes I’m pursuing through my Private Member’s Bill C-238, to ensure our justice system recognizes the real burden that crime places on victims, frontline workers and communities. I have been working closely with the Ministry of Justice on my Bill, and will continue to work in earnest to ensure our safe and resilient communities.

This is about safety, accountability and respect for the people who keep our communities strong. These changes will make Sudbury, and all of Canada, safer.