March 23-28, 2026

14 April 2026

A Troubling Week: C-9 Forced Through, Crime Measures Defeated, Policing Shortages Exposed

This was a dramatic week in Ottawa, with major developments on legislation, public safety, and government accountability.

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Bill C-9 Passed Despite Strong Opposition

Bill C-9 was pushed through despite significant public outcry and strong opposition from faith groups and civil liberties advocates.

The opposition proposed a reasonable and balanced approach:

• Pass the non-controversial portions of the bill

• Separate and further study the controversial amendments through proper consultation

This proposal was rejected by the government.

When it mattered most, the government shut out faith groups and key stakeholders from testifying on the most controversial amendments.

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Public Safety Bills Rejected

At the same time, the government voted down all four Conservative public safety bills—targeted, practical measures aimed at addressing crime and strengthening the justice system:

Bill C-246 — Consecutive Sentencing for Serious Offenders

Would require offenders, including sexual offenders, to serve sentences separately for each crime, rather than concurrently.

Ensures sentences reflect the full extent of the crimes committed

Defeated

Bill C-220 — No Leniency Based on Deportation

Would prohibit judges from giving lighter sentences to serious offenders (including rapists and child sex offenders) due to potential deportation.

Sentencing should be based on the crime—not immigration status

Defeated

Bill C-243 — Protecting Victims from Repeated Trauma

Would reform parole hearings to prevent victims from being forced to relive their trauma year after year.

A more humane and victim-centered approach

Defeated

Bill C-242 — “Jail, Not Bail” for Repeat Violent Offenders

Would tighten bail rules for repeat violent offenders and address the “catch-and-release” cycle.

Prioritizes community safety

Defeated

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Auditor General Raises Serious Red Flags

A new report from the Office of the Auditor General of Canada highlighted major systemic failures:

• Over 145,000 non-compliant international students were not properly followed up

• Ongoing shortages within the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

The RCMP continues to miss recruitment targets, and despite repeated announcements of adding 1,000 new officers, there is little evidence of a meaningful net increase on the ground.

At the same time, as the Auditor General pointed out, a deeper issue remains: the RCMP does not have a clear handle on how many officers it actually needs, highlighting significant gaps in manpower planning.

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In the Community

It was also great to connect with the community this week.

I had the pleasure of welcoming a talented group of artistic swimmers from Richmond here in Ottawa, following their outstanding performance at a national competition in Montreal where they brought home multiple medals. It is always a pleasure to meet constituents from my riding in the House of Commons—especially when they represent our community with such excellence.

Back in the community this weekend, I was honoured to present awards to lifesaving heroes recognized by the Lifesaving Society BC and Yukon. Their courage and dedication remind us of the very best of public service.

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Bottom Line

When controversial legislation is rushed through without consultation, common-sense public safety measures are rejected, and systemic failures continue unaddressed—

Canadians have every right to ask: is public safety truly a priority?