Canada's New Government announces new measures to protect canadians from dangerous offenders

October 17, 2006

OTTAWA – Canada’s New Government introduced legislation today to provide tougher sentences and more effective management of individuals convicted of sexual or violent offences in Canada.

The tabling of dangerous offenders legislation marks another step in the Government’s agenda to tackle crime and protect the Canadian way of life.

“This legislation will place stricter conditions on repeat offenders to keep such criminals from harming innocent Canadians,” said the Honourable Rob Nicholson, M.P. for Niagara Falls and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister for Democratic Reform. “Our justice system has a history of generously giving second and third chances, but at some point governments must draw the line.”

The proposed legislation will put the onus on offenders convicted of a third violent or sexual offence to prove that they should not be declared dangerous offenders. Those who fail to do so will be subject to an indeterminate jail sentence, with no eligibility for parole for seven years. In addition, the legislation will increase the maximum duration of peace bonds from 12 to 24 months, which will allow additional restrictions and conditions to be placed on the actions of released criminals.

“I have listened to my constituents on this issue, and their concerns are shared with citizens across this country,” added Minister Nicholson. “Canadians want action on crime, and our government is delivering.”

Since assuming office, Canada’s New Government has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at tackling crime and protecting the safety and security of Canadians. These include legislation to end conditional sentences for serious offences, implement mandatory minimum sentences for crimes involving guns, raise the age of consent for sexual activity from 14 to 16 years and crack down on street racing.