LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS THE DEFENCE OF INTOXICATION

ADOPTED IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS

OTTAWA, June 22, 1995 -- Bill C-72 (An Act to amend the Criminal Code - self-induced intoxication) was adopted by the House of Commons today. In passing this Bill the government is sending a strong message that extreme intoxication is not a defence to crimes of violence.

"There is no reason for our society to tolerate the abuse of intoxicants as an excuse for violence", said Minister Rock. "This Bill addresses an important point of principle. People cannot be permitted to hide behind drunkenness or other forms of intoxication to escape responsibility for their violent criminal conduct".

The Bill proposes to amend the Criminal Code so that intoxication is not a defence to any general intent crimes of violence, such as sexual assault and assault. The Bill also creates a "standard of care" that Canadians owe to each other in this context. Breach of this standard is criminal fault, and prevents the use of the extreme intoxication defence.

"Members of Parliament, through this Bill, are expressing their grave concern regarding violence in our society, especially against women and children", added the Minister. "The criminal law must reflect our shared values and notions of accountability if it is to have our confidence. I believe we have reached this objective in this Bill".

Bill C-72 will now be forwarded to the Senate for consideration.

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Ref.: Cyrus Reporter Heather Holmes

Minister's Office Department of Justice

(613) 992-4621 (613) 957-4741

Donald Piragoff

Department of Justice

(613) 957-4730

(Version française disponible)