Canada Announces Sweeping New Measures to Strengthen Public Safety and Combat Crime

Facing an increasingly complex and dangerous global environment, Canada’s government is rolling out a sweeping new public safety strategy aimed at strengthening communities, reforming criminal law, and enhancing national security. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the measures today, emphasizing that while Canada cannot control global instability, it can choose to build stronger, safer communities at home.

“In Canada, you should be able to wake up, get in your car, drive to work, come home, and sleep soundly at night,” Carney said. “When laws repeatedly fail to protect those basic rights, we need new laws.”

Tougher Laws for Violent and Repeat Offenders

At the core of the plan is a significant update to Canada’s Criminal Code, with legislation expected to be tabled next week targeting violent and repeat offenders. The reforms will focus on serious crimes such as violent auto theft, human trafficking, assault, and sexual violence.

Key changes include:

• Reverse-onus bail for major crimes, requiring offenders to prove why they should be released.

• Consecutive sentencing, ensuring longer prison terms for multiple offenses.

• Harsher penalties for organized retail theft.

• Restrictions on conditional sentences for sexual offenses.

Major Investments in Law Enforcement

The government will also invest $1.8 billion over four years to expand policing capacity across the country. This includes the hiring of 1,000 new RCMP officers, boosting recruitment incentives, and dedicating 150 officers to financial crimes such as money laundering, cyber fraud, and the recovery of illicit assets.

“The 1,000 new RCMP personnel will boost federal policing and make our communities safer,” said Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree. “This is a major investment in the safety of all Canadians.”

Addressing Root Causes of Crime

Officials stressed that enforcement alone is not enough. The plan includes collaboration with provinces, territories, and municipalities to tackle root causes — from affordable housing and mental health support to addiction treatment and youth programs.

The government is also expanding its efforts to combat gun and drug smuggling, online exploitation, and hate-fueled violence, including Islamophobia and antisemitism.

A Whole-of-Government Approach

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne highlighted the government’s broader commitment to public safety ahead of the Budget 2025, which will be tabled on November 4.

“We’re making targeted investments to strengthen our justice system and give law enforcement the tools they need,” Champagne said. “Every Canadian deserves to feel safe – in their home, on their street, and in their community.”

With significant funding, legal reforms, and cross-government cooperation, Ottawa is signaling a decisive shift toward a “Canada strong” approach to public safety.