Bill C-570 (Historical)

An Act to amend the Criminal Code (mandatory minimum sentences for rape)

This enactment amends sections 271, 272 and 273 of the Criminal Code to establish mandatory minimum sentences for sexual assaults that fall within the definition of “rape” as defined for the purpose of those sections. It also establishes that sentences for such offences must be served consecutively to any other punishment arising out of the same event or series of events.

[Djaouida Sellah, NDP, Saint-Bruno—Saint-Hubert, QC]

Thank you, Madam Chair.

I would like to thank all the witnesses for joining the committee today.

I want to echo the sentiments of all my colleagues and commend you on your tremendous leadership and all the work you are doing at the ground level to combat violence against women in all forms.

You have probably heard about Bill C-570, brought forward by Rob Anders, which seeks to impose minimum penalties in the case of rape. The bill focuses on rape.

My question is for all three of you.

Were you consulted when the bill was being put together, yes or no?

Violence Against Women

[Rob Anders, Conservative, Calgary West, AB]

Mr. Speaker, over the past weeks we have heard many personal accounts of sexual abuse involving Jian Ghomeshi, and of stories right here on Parliament Hill. In light of these high-profile allegations of sexual violence in the headlines, a national discussion has finally stirred. We must not let this conversation stop.

It is clear now, more so than ever, that changes must be made to Canada's sexual assault laws. My private member's bill, Bill C-570, proposes to make these necessary changes by introducing a mandatory minimum sentence for rape. If we want to stop violence against women, we must put sexual predators behind bars. Victims must feel comfortable going to court, knowing that their perpetrators will face consequences and not reoffend. Only then will more survivors be empowered to come forward, like the brave women who have already done so in these past weeks.

[The Chair, Conservative, Dave MacKenzie]

Okay.

We'll now go to Bill C-570.

Criminal Code

[Rob Anders, Conservative, Calgary West, AB]

moved for leave to introduce Bill C-570, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (mandatory minimum sentences for rape).

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce my private member's bill, an act to amend the Criminal Code, mandatory minimum sentences for rape.

This enactment would amend sections 271, 272 and 273 of the Criminal Code to establish mandatory minimum sentences for sexual assault to fall within the definition of rape as defined for the purpose of those sections.

It would also establish that sentences for such offences must be served consecutively to any other punishment arising out of the same event or series of events.

It is my hope that this piece of legislation will keep offenders behind bars longer and help keep Canadians and their families safe.

(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)