Statement from the Canadian Police Association

October 16, 2025

___________________________________________________________________________________

The Canadian Police Association welcomes today’s announcement by the Government of Canada introducing new measures to combat crime and protect Canadians. The pending legislation to strengthen the Criminal Code reflects the culmination of more than two years of leadership by Canada’s police associations, who have worked diligently to build consensus among federal, provincial, and municipal leaders on the urgent need to modernize our bail and sentencing laws.

Throughout this process, police associations have taken a proactive role in uniting diverse perspectives around a shared goal: improving community safety through practical, evidence-based reform. We are encouraged to see many of the recommendations that emerged from these efforts reflected in the government’s proposal.

This should be a moment for collaboration, not division. Both the government and the official opposition have made public commitments to prioritize bail and sentencing reform. Canadians expect Parliament to put aside political gamesmanship and work together to deliver meaningful results. We urge all parties to engage constructively and pass this legislation as quickly as possible to enhance public safety and restore Canadians’ diminished confidence in the justice system.

Canadians deserve to live in communities where they feel safe, where repeat violent offenders are held accountable, and where police have the tools and resources they need to protect the public. The Canadian Police Association stands ready to continue working with all levels of government to ensure this legislation moves forward swiftly and effectively.