A Giant Step Forward for Victims of Intimate Partner Violence
Ottawa, ON – Today, Frank Caputo, Conservative Shadow Minister for Public Safety, announced that his Private Member’s Bill to strengthen Canada’s legal response to intimate partner violence (IPV) – Bill C-225 – has successfully passed third reading in the House of Commons and is now on to the Senate.
“Today we took a giant step forward as a country and as a parliament in passing Bailey’s Law through third reading in the House,” said Caputo. “As a former parole officer and Crown prosecutor, I am convinced that our laws on intimate partner violence have been inadequate in addressing the seriousness of this insidious crime.”
Also known as “Bailey’s Law”, C-225 is one of the largest changes to the law related to IPV in Canadian history. Once enacted, this bill will:
- Make murder of an intimate partner a first-degree charge when there is a history of coercive control;
- Create the offence of “violence against intimate partner;”
- Increase sentences for violence against an intimate partner;
- Create a reverse onus for those on peace bonds; and
- Increase the time for holding of evidence after seizure.
“This bill will better protect victims, hold repeat offenders accountable, and strengthen our justice system’s response to IPV,” Caputo added. “I urge senators to move quickly to pass this critical legislation. Bailey McCourt’s family and countless other Canadians are depending on it.”
“I also want to thank Bailey’s family for their courage and determination in helping to pass this legislation,” continued Caputo. “As you grieve your loss, please know that we will continue to stand with you and support you every step of the way.”
“If you are experiencing violence from an intimate partner, I urge you to contact police or confide in someone you trust, Caputo concluded. “You do not have to face this alone.”