SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-334

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
May 31, 2023
An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Judges Act and the Director of Public Prosecutions Act (orders prohibiting publication of identifying information)
  • Bill C-334 aims to amend the Criminal Code, the Judges Act, and the Director of Public Prosecutions Act in relation to orders prohibiting the publication of identifying information. The bill seeks to improve communications with victims before and after a court makes an order to protect their identity. It prohibits such orders from being made without the victim's consent if the victim has been consulted beforehand. The bill also establishes a procedure for revoking or varying these orders. In cases of adult victims of sexual offenses, the court may revoke or vary the order if prompted by the victim's impact statement. Additionally, the bill mandates training for federally appointed judges and prosecutors on the impact of these orders on victims of sexual offenses.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • One steelman argument in favor of Bill C-334 is that it prioritizes the rights and well-being of victims of sexual offences. By requiring prosecutors to consult with victims before applying for an order to protect the victim's identity, the bill ensures that victims have a say in whether or not their identity should be protected. This empowers victims and allows them to make informed decisions about their own privacy and how they want to share their experiences. Additionally, the bill establishes a procedure for victims to apply to have a publication ban revoked or varied if they change their mind and no longer wish to have their identity protected. This recognizes that victims' perspectives and needs may change over time, and allows for flexibility in protecting their privacy. Furthermore, the bill mandates training for federally appointed judges and prosecutors on the impact of publication bans on victims of sexual offences. This ensu

SteelmanSpren Against

  • The proposed amendment to the Criminal Code, Judges Act, and Director of Public Prosecutions Act raises several concerns that undermine the core principles of justice and fairness. Firstly, the requirement for a court to order a publication ban on application of the prosecutor in cases of sexual offences undermines the principle of judicial impartiality. By making it mandatory for the court to grant the publication ban, it limits the court's discretion and reduces its ability to assess the circumstances and necessity of such an order on a case-by-case basis. This compromises the principle of fair and equal treatment under the law. Furthermore, the amendment places undue burden on the victim to be aware of the publication ban and consent to its application. While the intention is to provide victims with a choice, there is a risk that victims may not fully understand the implications of the publication ban or may feel pressured to con
House Second Reading
  • May 31, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read
House First Reading
  • May 31, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • Passed