Bill C-11 Passes Defence Committee with Important Amendments
Ottawa, ON – James Bezan, Conservative Shadow Minister for National Defence, issued the following statement after the conclusion of clause-by-clause consideration of Bill C-11, The Military Justice System Modernization Act, at the Standing Committee on National Defence on Wednesday:
“Choice was the most important theme we heard from survivors of military sexual trauma. Overwhelmingly, they told the committee that they want the ability to choose which system will investigate and lay charges in their case, and not to be forced into the civilian justice system, which is plagued by delays.
“Conservatives listened to survivors and acted on their recommendations, especially to ensure the victim’s choice. We were proud to work together with the Bloc Québécois and NDP to propose and pass critical amendments to strengthen the military justice system to best serve the members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and veterans.
“However, even during clause-by-clause, we heard the Liberal members blatantly dispute and disregard the testimony and lived experiences of survivors in order to double down on pushing their cases into an already overburdened civilian justice system.
“Additionally, the committee heard from military experts who spoke strongly for improving independence within the military justice system, not removing their jurisdiction.
“We made significant amendments to improve independence, ensure equal access to justice for every CAF member and ensure positions are filled by the Governor-in-Council in a timely manner. The amended Bill C-11 also includes a four-year sunset clause for provisions related to jurisdiction changes to ensure consistent reflection on what is and is not working for victims.
“This is an important piece of legislation. I call on the Liberal government to ensure its quick return to the House of Commons for report stage and third reading.”