Canada’s Minister of Justice emphasized that bail hearings will no longer serve as a “get out of jail free card” during an interview on Breakfast Television. This statement came a day after Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal government introduced comprehensive reforms on the subject.
The newly introduced Bail and Sentencing Reform Act seeks to tighten requirements for obtaining bail for a wider range of offenses, including crimes such as vehicle theft, organized crime, extortion, retail theft, and break-and-enters.
Minister Fraser, who also holds the position of Attorney General of Canada, defended the legislation in response to concerns raised, despite a recent 4% decrease in police-reported crime according to Crime Severity Index statistics for 2024. He acknowledged that this decline followed several consecutive years of increasing crime rates across the country.
Fraser highlighted the need for action, citing instances where repeat offenders continue to commit crimes even after being arrested and released. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that sentences align with the seriousness of the crimes committed, especially for violent and habitual offenders.
The reforms have faced criticism from some quarters, including the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, who argue that the bill may infringe on the Charter right to reasonable bail. Fraser, however, stated that the changes were the result of extensive consultations with law enforcement and community leaders.
The Minister stressed that the reforms are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at imposing stricter penalties for serious crimes, providing more frontline support, and investing in initiatives like affordable housing, mental health services, addiction support, and programs for at-risk youth.
Addressing concerns about the delay in enacting these changes, Fraser asserted that it is never too late to do the right thing, acknowledging that there may have been missed opportunities in the past.