Introducing stricter bail and sentencing laws
Our federal government has introduced sweeping reforms to strengthen bail laws and toughen sentencing for repeat and violent offenders. This includes over 80 targeted changes to the Criminal Code, developed in consultation with law enforcement and provincial, territorial and municipal leaders. Key measures include:
Stricter bail laws: Detention becomes the starting point for certain offences, requiring the accused to demonstrate why they should be released.
Protecting victims and communities: Police and courts are directed not to release an accused when doing so would be against the public interest or could endanger victims, witnesses or children.
Tougher sentences: Longer sentences for repeat and violent crimes, including auto theft and extortion, and consecutive sentences for repeat violent offences, auto theft, break and enter, extortion and arson.
New aggravating factors: Harsher penalties for crimes against first responders, organized retail theft, and damage to critical infrastructure, such as copper theft.
Ending house arrest for sexual assault and child sexual offences.
While the federal government is closing gaps in the bail system, provinces must also ensure sufficient resources for Crown prosecutors, courts and the capacity of provincial jails, which hold individuals awaiting trial or sentencing.
I look forward to getting Bill C-14 passed into law as we work to keep Canadians safe.
More Covered by Dental Care Plan
Over 5 million Canadians now have access to the Canadian Dental Care Plan, including more than 2 million in Ontario, with 1 million already receiving care. The program saves eligible Canadians an average of $800 per year and has allowed many to visit a dentist for the first time in decades.
Please visit sunlife.ca/sl/cdcp/en/member/provider-search to easily find participating dental practices in our community. For more information, visit Canada.ca/Dental or reach Service Canada at 1-833-537-4342
Lowering Costs for Canadians
In a time of economic uncertainty, Budget 2025 focuses on easing costs and supporting essential programs that benefit Canadians. Key measures include:
- Automatic federal benefits for up to 5.5 million low-income Canadians, making it easier to access programs like the GST/HST credit, Canada Child Benefit, and Canada Disability Benefit.
- Permanent National School Food Program, providing meals to up to 400,000 children and saving families with two children about $800 per year.
- Renewed Canada Strong Pass, allowing children and young families to explore national and provincial parks, museums and rail travel for free or at a reduced cost through the holidays and summer 2026.
Honouring our Soldiers,
Past and Present
On Remembrance Day, we honour the brave Canadians who have answered the call of duty – those who gave their lives for peace and freedom, and those who continue to guard it today. Their sacrifice is etched into our national consciousness, and the Canada we continue to build is their lasting monument.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 258 for organizing its annual poppy campaign in support of our soldiers and veterans. On Remembrance Day, we come together to acknowledge a debt we can never fully repay. Lest we forget.