Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is advocating for stringent crime legislation as Parliament prepares to reconvene, citing certain communities as resembling “war zones” and emphasizing the need for immediate action. Similarly, the Liberal government has pledged to introduce its own legislation this autumn to strengthen the bail system, which some law enforcement and victims’ rights advocates criticize as too lenient, resulting in the release of repeat criminal offenders into the community at the expense of public safety.
Efforts to combat crime coincide with data showing a decrease in crime rates following a post-pandemic surge. Statistics Canada reports a 3.6% decline in the police-reported crime rate to 5,672 incidents per 100,000 population compared to the previous year. However, the current rate remains higher than when the last Liberal government assumed office in 2015. The decrease is primarily attributed to a notable reduction in non-violent crimes, such as property and drug offenses, which decreased by about six percent last year. Violent crime severity index also slightly decreased by approximately one percent, according to the federal agency.
Despite these trends, Poilievre asserts that “crime is raging out of control,” highlighting StatsCan data indicating a 29% increase in homicides over the past decade, with 788 homicide victims recorded nationwide last year compared to 613 in 2015. To address these concerns, Poilievre’s party plans to introduce the “Jail Not Bail Act,” sponsored by MP Arpan Khanna, aiming to tackle crime issues. The proposed legislation seeks to reverse aspects of the previous Liberal government’s Bill C-75, which mandated the release of some individuals on bail under certain conditions.
Furthermore, Poilievre proposes legislation that would require judges to consider an accused individual’s complete criminal history when determining bail eligibility. He also advocates for a policy preventing individuals convicted of serious crimes from acting as guarantors. Poilievre’s agenda includes repealing Bill C-5, which expanded conditional sentencing options, and implementing a “three-strikes-and-you’re-out law” for serious offenders.
However, Poilievre’s strict stance on bail may encounter legal challenges, given past court precedents favoring minimal bail conditions for most alleged crimes. Despite potential resistance, Poilievre remains resolute in his commitment to enhancing public safety. Justice Minister Sean Fraser has countered Poilievre’s proposals, expressing the government’s intention to introduce stricter laws addressing hate crimes and sex crimes in addition to the bail reform bill.
Both parties are gearing up for a legislative showdown as they strive to enhance public safety and address the evolving crime landscape in Canada.