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Backgrounder Criminal Code Amendments to Combat Gun and Gang-Related Crime in Canada While Canada has some of the toughest gun crime laws in the world, and firearms crimes – next to murder – have penalties that are among the harshest in the entire Criminal Code, enhancements are needed. The Government of Canada has introduced legislation as part of a multi-faceted strategy to combat gun violence. The proposed legislative reforms, which are supported by and were developed in consultation with the provinces and territories, would:
The proposed reforms would also expand the use of firearm prohibition orders:
As well, the legislation would presumptively restrict parole eligibility until one-half of the sentence has been served, as opposed to the normal one-third, for those offenders who used a firearm to commit attempted murder, sexual assault with a weapon, aggravated sexual assault, kidnapping or hostage-taking. Protection for witnesses in firearms cases would also be improved, providing that they could testify behind a screen or closed-circuit television, and a publication ban provision would help safeguard their identity. The Government of Canada has proposed measures that are strong enough to respond to serious crime, while preserving an appropriate level of flexibility to respond to the full range of offences and offenders in the criminal justice system. The Government is committed to working on an ongoing basis with the provinces and territories and other partners to ensure our laws remain responsive to the challenges posed by gun violence. This package of reforms would enhance existing laws to address gun crimes. Currently under the Criminal Code, there are approximately 20 mandatory minimum penalties that apply to a full array of serious firearm offences. They range from one year to four years, and ten of the penalties carry four-year minimum penalties. To learn more about the strengths of Canada 's existing laws to combat the illegal use of firearms, visit: http://canada.justice.gc.ca/en/news/fs/2005/doc_31624.html - 30 - Department of Justice |
Last Updated: 2005-11-25 | Important Notices |