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Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-345

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
June 19, 2023
An Act to protect firefighters, paramedics and other first responders
  • The Canadian government has passed a new law called Bill C-345 to protect first responders such as firefighters and paramedics. It amends the Criminal Code to make the murder of a first responder automatically first degree murder, and increases the maximum sentence for aggravated assault on a first responder. It also creates a new offense of assaulting a first responder. The full text of the bill is available on the House of Commons website.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • The enactment of Bill C-345 is necessary to protect firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders who risk their lives to help others. Designating the murder of a first responder as automatically first degree murder sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. Increasing the maximum term of imprisonment for aggravated assault of first responders recognizes the seriousness of these crimes and provides an appropriate punishment for those who commit them. The creation of the offence of assaulting a first responder is important to deter such behaviour and ensure that those who do it face consequences. Overall, this bill is a necessary measure to protect those who protect us, and its passing would be a step in the right direction towards ensuring their safety and well-being.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • A potential steelman argument opposing this bill could be that while it is important to protect first responders, creating specific laws for their protection may not be necessary or effective. All individuals, including first responders, should be protected under existing laws against assault and murder. Furthermore, increasing the maximum term of imprisonment may not serve as a deterrent for those who may harm first responders. Instead, efforts should be placed on improving training and equipment for first responders in order to minimize the risk of harm. Additionally, this bill may give the impression that the lives of first responders are more valuable than others, which can be a dangerous precedent to set. It is important to value and protect all members of society equally.
House Second Reading
  • June 19, 2023, 11 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read
House First Reading
  • June 19, 2023, 11 a.m.
  • Passed