CPA ACP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Statement from the Canadian Police Association in Support of Bill C-243

The Canadian Police Association, representing more than 60,000 front-line police personnel across Canada through our member associations, supports the intent and objectives of Private Members’ Bill C-243.

Police officers see first-hand the profound and lasting impact that violent crime has on victims, families, and communities. While the criminal justice process eventually concludes with a conviction and sentence, the experience for victims’ families does not end when the trial is over. Repeated parole applications can require families to relive the most traumatic moments of their lives, forcing them to revisit painful memories in order to participate in hearings and provide statements.

Bill C-243 reflects a thoughtful effort to address this concern. By aligning parole review timelines with statutory provisions already established in law, the legislation would reduce unnecessary and repeated hearings that can retraumatize victims’ families while maintaining the integrity of Canada’s parole system. The bill does not alter the independent decision-making authority of the Parole Board of Canada or undermine due process. Instead, it proposes a balanced and compassionate adjustment that recognizes the ongoing impact violent crime has on those left behind. While this legislation represents an important and constructive step forward, there remains broader work to be done to ensure that Canada’s justice system continues to better support victims and their families.

Front-line police personnel regularly work with victims and their families throughout the justice process. We understand that justice must not only focus on the offender but must also acknowledge the lasting consequences experienced by those whose lives have been permanently altered by violent acts. Reducing unnecessary re-traumatization is a reasonable and humane objective that deserves careful consideration by Parliament.

The Canadian Police Association also recognizes the work of Member of Parliament Kerry Diotte in advancing this issue. Mr. Diotte has engaged constructively with police associations and victims’ advocates in developing this legislation, and we appreciate his willingness to listen to the perspectives of front-line policing personnel and the families who continue to live with the consequences of violent crime.

The Canadian Police Association encourages Members of Parliament from all parties to support Bill C-243 at second reading and allow it to proceed to committee for detailed study. Committee review will allow parliamentarians to hear from victims’ families and criminal justice experts to ensure the legislation achieves its intended purpose while preserving fairness in the parole process.

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For additional information:

Michael Gendron

Communications Officer, Canadian Police Association

mgendron@cpa-acp.ca / 613-299-6516