This week in Ottawa, our government announced two major reforms to help Canadians feel safer and more secure in their communities, one focused on bail and sentencing reform, and the other on combatting financial fraud and scams.
As Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, I am proud to support Minister Sean Fraser’s introduction of Bill C-14, the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, a key step in strengthening public safety. Canadians have been clear; they expect meaningful action to keep communities safe. After extensive consultations with provincial partners, justice experts, and key stakeholders, we are delivering on that commitment.
Bill C-14 introduces a reverse onus system for repeat offenders charged with serious crimes such as home invasions, violent car theft, assault, sexual assault, extortion, or human trafficking. Under our reform, these individuals will have to prove why they deserve bail, rather than prosecutors having to justify denying it as is the case today. Our legislation will also modernize and streamline bail procedures to enhance efficiency.
The legislation also toughens sentences for repeat offenders involved in auto theft, organized crime, and home invasions, while empowering courts to impose consecutive sentences for violent and repeat crimes. Importantly, it restricts conditional sentencing for those convicted of sexual offences. These reforms enhance safety, reinforce accountability, and remain consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
At the same time, our government is taking decisive action against the growing threat of financial scams and fraud, which have cost Canadians more than $643 million in 2024 alone. Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne announced that in Budget 2025, Canada will launch its first National Anti-Fraud Strategy, requiring banks to adopt stronger anti-fraud policies and giving consumers more control over their finances.
A new Financial Crimes Agency will be established by spring 2026 to investigate complex financial crimes, and a Code of Conduct for the Prevention of Economic Abuse will be developed to better protect vulnerable Canadians, including seniors and newcomers. These measures will strengthen Canada’s financial security and protect all Canadians.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate our Liberal government’s unwavering commitment to protecting Canadians, reinforcing our justice system, and ensuring a safer, more secure Canada for all.