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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

DAN ALBAS: Jail Not Bail -- The bill that could change how Canada handles violent offenders

This week in Ottawa, yet another private member’s bill became the focus of considerable attention. This time, it was Bill C‑242, known as the Jail Not Bail Act, introduced by Conservative MP Arpan Khanna, who represents Oxford, Ontario.

For those who attended my recent crime forum in Kelowna, MP Khanna participated as a guest, taking the time to listen directly to the serious concerns residents raised about crime in our community. The issue of repeat violent offenders being released only to re‑offend is not abstract—it is a reality that many families and businesses here in Kelowna are confronting.

I have met with the City of Kelowna on this matter, which has clearly documented the significant and growing impact this problem is having locally. Similar concerns are being raised by residents and local leaders in communities across my riding.

It is also important to recognize how we arrived at this point. In 2018, the Trudeau Liberal government passed Bill C‑75, amending the Criminal Code and fundamentally reshaping Canada’s bail system. Among its changes was the entrenchment of the so‑called “principle of restraint,” directing courts to release accused persons at the earliest reasonable opportunity and on the least onerous conditions possible.

While judicial discretion remains, this legislative shift made automatic release the starting point rather than public safety. That decision lies at the heart of what many Canadians now recognize as a catch‑and‑release justice system.

The consequences have been serious. Since 2015, violent crime has risen significantly across Canada. Homicides have increased, gang‑related killings have surged, and violent gun crime has climbed sharply. These are not just statistics—they represent real victims and real communities paying the price.

Bill C‑242, the Jail Not Bail Act, proposes a clear course correction. The bill would restrict bail for repeat violent offenders, reversing the Liberals’ ideological approach by making public safety the primary consideration in bail decisions, rather than automatic release.

The legislation also expands reverse‑onus provisions, requiring individuals charged with serious violent offences to demonstrate why they should be released, instead of forcing communities to bear the risk by default. Judges would retain discretion, but the law would once again prioritize the safety of the public.

Most importantly, Bill C‑242 would repeal the rigid interpretation of the “principle of restraint” introduced under Bill C‑75, restoring balance, accountability, and common sense to Canada’s bail system.

No one should fear that a person charged with a violent offence will be back on the street before the ink is dry on the paperwork. Canadians deserve a justice system that puts law‑abiding citizens first.

My question this week is straightforward: Do you think the Liberal Government should support Bill C-242, the “Jail Not Bail Act”?

I invite you to share your thoughts and join the discussion on my Facebook page. Alternatively, you can reach me directly at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca, or toll‑free at 1‑800‑665‑8711. 

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