Protecting Places of Worship

Over the past 10 years, there has been a shocking increase in incidents of mischief committed against religious property in Canada. Stories of churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship being vandalised are being reported all too frequently.

In light of this concerning trend, I introduced Private Members Bill C-255, an Act to amend the Criminal Code (mischief – religious property), in the House of Commons, which will discourage vandalism and mischief as well as support the victims of these crimes.

Currently, the Criminal Code addresses crimes of mischief directed at a place of worship. However, an individual would only be charged with an offence under these provisions if the police and prosecutor are able to prove that hate was the motivating factor when the offender committed the crime.

Bill C-255 would remove that requirement, making it easier for authorities to hold perpetrators accountable.

Additionally, C-255 seeks to shift the financial burden caused by vandalism or mischief from the victim to the criminal. Compensation to the victim would be mandatory.

The goal of my bill is not to be harsh or vindictive, but to bring about justice and restoration. Justice requires that someone be held accountable for a crime committed.

If you agree that Canada must take action to protect its places of worship, I encourage you to print, sign, and distribute this petition amongst your community.

Text of Bill C-255

Private Member’s Bill C-255 – An Act to amend the Criminal Code (mischief — religious property)

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