CPA ACP

OTTAWA –
Associations representing Canada’s front-line law enforcement personnel released the following
statement today, welcoming the introduction of Bill C-48 (An Act to Amend the Criminal Code –
Bail Reform), by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. The following quotes
are from the Presidents of the Canadian Police Association, Police Association of Ontario,
Toronto Police Association, and the Ontario Provincial Police Association.

“Front-line law enforcement personnel have been asking the government to take concrete steps
to address the small number of repeat violent offenders who commit a disproportionate number
of offences that put the safety of our communities at risk, and we appreciate that Minister
Lametti and Minister Mendicino have worked collaboratively with stakeholders and introduced
this common-sense legislation that responds to the concerns that our members have raised.” –
Tom Stamatakis, President, Canadian Police Association.

“Police personnel haven’t just been asking for a ‘tough on crime’ approach, we have been
advocating for a balanced approach that includes prevention and rehabilitation, but also
recognizes that a small number of repeat, violent offenders need to be held accountable for their
actions. Bill C-48 is a step in the right direction, and we sincerely hope the Courts will use these
new measures that are being introduced by the government in cases where circumstances
warrant.” – Mark Baxter, President, Police Association of Ontario.

“Our members recognize that our Charter ensures we all benefit from a presumption of
innocence, but for too long the current balance has put the rights of an accused well above the
rights our communities have to public safety and security. Ensuring the public maintains its
confidence in the administration of justice is paramount, and I believe the introduction of Bill C-
48, and the clear message being sent by the government that public safety remains a top
priority, will help victims of crime, as well as all Canadians know serious, repeat violent
offenders can and will be held accountable for their actions.” – Jon Reid, President, Toronto
Police Association

“Our members have seen first-hand the tragic results that can happen when repeat violent
offenders are continuously released without concern for the impact that has on community
safety. Over the past 8 months, the policing community, and all Canadians have mourned the
loss of too many murdered police officers. In December, we persevered through the tragic loss
of Ontario Provincial Police Constable Grzegorz (Greg) Pierzchala and now another
heartbreaking funeral being held this week for Ontario Provincial Police Sergeant Eric Mueller.
Our members appreciate the virtually unprecedented consensus that formed calling for concrete
action on bail reform, and we’re glad to see the government has responded with the introduction
of Bill C-48. We look forward to working with all stakeholders and Parliamentarians to see this
legislation pass quickly.” – John Cerasuolo, President, Ontario Provincial Police
Association.
 

For additional information:
Michael Gendron
Communications Officer, Canadian Police Association
(613) 299-6516 / mgendron@cpa-acp.ca