← Your dashboard·HoC · 45-1passed
Official record· LEGISinfoHouse of Commons · Bill C-11

C-11 · Military Justice System Modernization Act

An Act to amend the National Defence Act and other Acts

Introduced Sep 26, 2025MEDIUM
AI-assisted analysis
At a glance
  • Amends military justice procedures to enhance independence in the military justice system.
  • Removes certain sexual offences from court martial jurisdiction for better alignment with civilian law.
  • Expands eligibility for military judges and modifies the appointment process for key military roles.
  • Introduces support for victims by allowing a liaison officer to assist in service offence cases.
Canadian Armed Forces membersMilitary judgesVictims of military-related offencesMilitary police personnel
AI-assisted analysis
What's actually in this bill
Full billMilitary Justice System Updates
What it does

This part of the bill updates various provisions concerning the military justice system, including clarifying roles and responsibilities of military legal authorities, expanding the definition of offenses, and establishing protocols for the appointment and oversight of key positions such as the Provost Marshal General and Director of Military Prosecutions.

Why it matters

These changes aim to enhance the independence and effectiveness of military justice, ensuring that service members can receive fair treatment under the law. This matters to Canadians as it strengthens the integrity of the military justice system and protects the rights of victims within that system.

The problem it addresses

The bill seeks to improve the clarity and functionality of military legal processes, addressing potential gaps in independence and accountability within the military justice framework.

Who benefits

Victims of service offenses will benefit from clearer procedures and enhanced support through their interactions with military justice authorities.

The tradeoff

While the bill aims to enhance justice and accountability, it could concentrate more authority in the hands of military leadership, potentially limiting the oversight that civilian authorities have in military legal matters, thereby impacting transparency and public trust.

military personnelvictims of military crimesmilitary legal authoritiescivilian legal authoritiesmilitary judges
Read the actual text (78)
Short title

1This Act may be cited as the Military Justice System Modernization Act .

Clarification — independence

2Section 9.2 of the National Defence Act is amended by adding the following after subsection (1): (1.1) For greater certainty, in the exercise of the Judge Advocate General’s superintendence, the Judge Advocate General respects the independence of authorities in the military justice system, including the Provost Marshal General, the Director of Military Prosecutions and the Director of Defence Counsel Services.

Retroactive effect

3(1) Paragraph 12(3)(a) of the Act is replaced by the following: (a) prescribing the rates and conditions of issue of pay of military judges; (2) The portion of subsection 12(4) of the Act before paragraph (a) is replaced by the following: (4) Regulations made under paragraph (3)(a) may, if they so provide, have retroactive effect. However, they may not have effect

Appointment

4Subsections 18.3(1) to (4) of the Act are replaced by the following: 18.3 (1) The Governor in Council may appoint an officer who has been a member of the military police for at least 10 years to be the Provost Marshal General . Rank (2) The Provost Marshal General holds a rank that is not less than brigadier-general . Tenure of office (3) The Provost Marshal General holds office during pleasure for a term not exceeding four years.

5Paragraph 18.4(a) of the Act is replaced by the following: (a) the supervision of the performance of policing duties and functions;

Acting Provost Marshal General

6Sections 18.5 and 18.6 of the Act are replaced by the following: 18.41 If the Provost Marshal General is absent or unable to act or the office of Provost Marshal General is vacant, the Minister may authorize any officer who is a member of the military police to exercise the powers and perform the duties and functions of the Provost Marshal General, but that officer may act as the Provost Marshal General for a period of more than 90 days only with the approval of the Governor in Council.

Responsible to Minister

18.5(1) The Provost Marshal General is responsible to the Minister in the performance of the responsibilities described in paragraphs 18.4(a) to (d). General instructions or guidelines (2) The Minister may issue general instructions or guidelines in writing in respect of the responsibilities described in paragraphs 18.4(a) to (d). The Provost Marshal General shall ensure that they are available to the public.

Annual report

18.6The Provost Marshal General shall, within three months after the end of each fiscal year, submit to the Minister a report concerning the activities of the Provost Marshal General and the military police during the year.

7Section 70 of the Act is amended by striking out “or” at the end of paragraph (b) and by adding the following after paragraph (c): (d) an offence under any of the following provisions of the Criminal Code : (i) section 151 (sexual interference), (ii) section 152 (invitation to sexual touching), (iii) section 153 (sexual exploitation), (iv) section 153.1 (sexual exploitation of person with disability), (v) section 155 (incest), (vi) subsection 160(1) (bestiality), (vii) subsection 160(2) (compelling the commission of bestiality), (viii) subsection 160(3) (bestiality in presence of or by a child), (ix) section 162 (voyeurism), (x) section 162.1 (publication, etc., of an intimate image without consent), (xi) section 163.1 (child pornography), (xii) section 170 (parent or guardian procuring sexual activity), (xiii) section 171 (householder permitting prohibited sexual activity), (xiv) section 171.1 (making sexually explicit material available to child), (xv) section 172.1 (luring a child), (xvi) section 172.2 (agreement or arrangement — sexual offence against child), (xvii) subsection 173(2) (exposure), (xviii) section 271 (sexual assault), (xix) section 272 (sexual assault with a weapon, threats to a third party or causing bodily harm), (xx) section 273 (aggravated sexual assault), (xxi) section 273.3 (removal of a child from Canada), (xxii) section 279.011 (trafficking — person under 18 years), (xxiii) subsection 279.02(2) (material benefit — trafficking of person under 18 years), (xxiv) subsection 279.03(2) (withholding or destroying documents — trafficking of person under 18 years), (xxv) section 286.1 (obtaining sexual services for consideration), (xxvi) section 286.2 (material benefit from sexual services), (xxvii) section 286.3 (procuring), and (xxviii) section 286.4 (advertising sexual services); (e) an offence under the Criminal Code — other than an offence referred to in paragraph (d) — that is of a sexual nature or that is committed for a sexual purpose; (f) an offence under the Criminal Code , as it read from time to time before the day on which this paragraph comes into force, if the conduct alleged would be an offence referred to in paragraph (d) or (e) if it occurred on or after that day; (g) conspiring or attempting to commit an offence referred to in any of paragraphs (d) to (f) or being an accessory after the fact to such an offence; or (h) counselling a person to commit an offence referred to in any of paragraphs (d) to (f) if the offence is not committed.

No authority to investigate — certain offences

8The Act is amended by adding the following after section 70: 70.1 Despite any other provision of this Act and any other law, an officer or non-commissioned member does not have authority to investigate, for the purposes of the laying of a charge under paragraph 130(1)(a) or an information under the Criminal Code , in relation to an offence referred to in any of paragraphs 70(d) to (h) that was, or is alleged to have been, committed in Canada.

Clarification — investigative measures

70.2(1) Nothing in section 70.1 prevents an officer or non-commissioned member from exercising their powers or performing their duties and functions, before the arrival of the civilian authority having jurisdiction in the matter, to the extent necessary to prevent the commission, continuation or repetition of an offence referred to in any of paragraphs 70(d) to (h) that, as the case may be, is being, was, or is alleged to have been committed in Canada, including (a) making an arrest in relation to the offence in accordance with Division 3 of Part III of this Act or section 494 or 495 of the Criminal Code ; or (b) if an arrest is made under paragraph (a), conducting a search incident to the arrest. Evidence relating to the offence (2) Nothing in section 70.1 prevents an officer or non-commissioned member from securing or preserving any evidence of or relating to the offence referred to in subsection (1) before the arrival of the civilian authority having jurisdiction in the matter. Evidence otherwise secured (3) Nothing in section 70.1 prevents an officer or non-commissioned member from securing or preserving — to the extent that their powers, duties and functions under this Act, other than under subsection (1) or (2), or any other law authorize them to do so — evidence of or relating to an offence referred to in any of paragraphs 70(d) to (h) that was, or is alleged to have been, committed in Canada. Transfer of arrested persons and evidence (4) An officer or non-commissioned member shall, as soon as feasible, transfer a person arrested under paragraph (1)(a) to the custody of the civilian authority having jurisdiction in the matter and transfer to them any evidence secured or preserved under any of subsections (1) to (3).

Clarification — private prosecutions

70.3Nothing in section 70.1 prevents an officer or non-commissioned member from initiating or conducting a private prosecution in relation to an offence referred to in any of paragraphs 70(d) to (h).

Victim’s liaison officer

9(1) Subsection 71.16(1) of the Act is replaced by the following: 71.16 (1) Unless they are of the opinion that it is not possible to do so for operational reasons, a commanding officer shall, at the request of the victim or an individual acting on their behalf , appoint an officer or non-commissioned member, who satisfies the conditions established in regulations made by the Governor in Council, to be a liaison officer to assist the victim or individual as provided for in subsection (3). The commanding officer shall, to the extent possible, appoint the officer or non-commissioned member who has been requested by the victim or individual to be their liaison officer.

Proof of certain facts by certificate

10Subsection 119.1(3) of the Act is replaced by the following: (3) In proceedings under subsection (1), a certificate of a person referred to in paragraph 16(2)(b.1) of the Sex Offender Information Registration Act stating that the person named in the certificate failed to report under section 4, 4.1, 4.2 or 4.3 — or provide information under section 5 or notify a person under subsection 6(1) or (1.01) — of that Act is evidence of the statements contained in it without proof of the signature or official character of the person appearing to have signed it.

Military judges

11The Act is amended by adding the following after section 162.5: 162.51 A military judge is not to be charged with having committed a service infraction.

12Paragraph 162.9(c) of the Act is repealed.

Military judges

13Section 163 of the Act is amended by adding the following after subsection (2): (3) Despite subsections (1) and (2), a military judge may not conduct a hearing.

Prescription

14Section 163.4 of the French version of the Act is replaced by the following: 163.4 L’ audience sommaire ne peut commencer que dans les six mois suivant la date de la commission présumée du manquement d’ordre militaire auquel elle se rapporte .

Appointment

15Section 165.1 of the Act is replaced by the following: 165.1 (1) The Governor in Council may appoint an officer who is a barrister or advocate with at least ten years standing at the bar of a province to be the Director of Military Prosecutions. Tenure of office (2) The Director of Military Prosecutions holds office during good behaviour for a term of not more than seven years but may be subject to remedial or disciplinary measures in accordance with section 165.101 . Term not renewable (3) The Director of Military Prosecutions is not eligible to be reappointed. Suspension (4) On receipt of a request referred to in subsection 165.101(1), the Governor in Council may, if the Governor in Council is of the opinion that there are exceptional circumstances that justify it, suspend the Director of Military Prosecutions from office until the Governor in Council decides whether to impose any remedial or disciplinary measures. Definition of exceptional circumstances (5) For the purposes of subsection (4), exceptional circumstances include circumstances in which there are allegations of serious misconduct or allegations related to a risk to occupational health and safety or to a risk of injury to international relations, national defence or national security.

Inquiry

165.101(1) The Minister may request of the Governor in Council that an inquiry be held to determine whether the Director of Military Prosecutions should be subject to remedial or disciplinary measures for any reason set out in paragraphs (12)(a) to (e). Appointment of judge (2) On receipt of a request, the Governor in Council may appoint a judge of a superior court to conduct the inquiry. Powers (3) The judge has all the powers, rights and privileges that are vested in a superior court, including the power to (a) issue a summons requiring any person to appear at the time and place specified in the summons in order to testify about all matters within the person’s knowledge relative to the inquiry and to produce any document or thing relative to the inquiry that the person has or controls; and (b) administer oaths and examine any person on oath. Staff (4) The judge may engage the services of counsel and other persons having technical or specialized knowledge to assist the judge in conducting the inquiry, establish the terms and conditions of their engagement and, with the approval of the Treasury Board, fix and pay their remuneration and expenses. Inquiry in public (5) Subject to subsections (6) and (7), the inquiry shall be conducted in public. Confidentiality of inquiry (6) The judge may, on application, take any measures and make any order that the judge considers necessary to ensure the confidentiality of the inquiry if, after having considered all available alternative measures, the judge is satisfied that (a) there is a real and substantial risk that matters involving international relations, national defence or national security will be disclosed; (b) there is a real and substantial risk to the fairness of the inquiry such that the need to prevent disclosure outweighs the societal interest that the inquiry be conducted in public; or (c) there is a serious possibility that the life, liberty or security of a person will be endangered. Confidentiality of application (7) If the judge considers it appropriate, the judge may take any measures and make any order that the judge considers necessary to ensure the confidentiality of a hearing held in respect of an application under subsection (6). Rules of evidence (8) The judge is not bound by any legal or technical rules of evidence and may receive, and base a decision on, evidence presented in the proceedings that they consider credible or trustworthy in the circumstances of the case. Intervenors (9) An interested party may, with leave of the judge, intervene in the inquiry on any terms and conditions that the judge considers appropriate. Notice to Director of Military Prosecutions (10) The Director of Military Prosecutions shall be given reasonable notice of the subject matter of the inquiry and of the time and place of any hearing and shall be given an opportunity, in person or by counsel, to be heard at the hearing, to cross-examine witnesses and to present evidence. Report to Minister (11) After the inquiry has been completed, the judge shall submit a report containing their findings and recommendations, if any, to the Minister. Recommendations (12) The judge may, in the report, recommend that the Director of Military Prosecutions be suspended without pay or removed from office or that any other disciplinary measure or any remedial measure be taken if, in the judge’s opinion, the Director (a) has become incapacitated from the proper execution of that office by reason of infirmity; (b) has committed misconduct; (c) has failed in the proper execution of that office; (d) has been placed, by conduct or otherwise, in a position that is incompatible with the due execution of that office; or (e) no longer satisfies the minimum standards and conditions of service applicable to officers. Transmission of report to Governor in Council (13) The Minister shall send the report to the Governor in Council who may, if the Governor in Council considers it appropriate, suspend the Director of Military Prosecutions without pay, remove the Director from office or impose any other disciplinary measure or any remedial measure.

Acting Director of Military Prosecutions

16Section 165.16 of the Act is replaced by the following: 165.16 If the Director of Military Prosecutions is absent or unable to act or the office of Director of Military Prosecutions is vacant , the Minister may authorize any officer who is a barrister or advocate with standing at the bar of a province to exercise the powers and perform the duties and functions of the Director of Military Prosecutions, but that officer may act as the Director of Military Prosecutions for a period of more than 90 days only with the approval of the Governor in Council .

Specific instructions or guidelines

17(1) Subsection 165.17(3) of the Act is replaced by the following: (3) The Minister may issue instructions or guidelines in writing in respect of a particular prosecution. (2) Subsections 165.17(5) and (6) of the Act are replaced by the following: Exception (5) The Director of Military Prosecutions may, if they consider it to be in the best interests of the administration of military justice, delay making an instruction or guideline issued under subsection (3) , or any part of it, available to the public until the completion of the prosecution or any related prosecution . Copies to Minister (6) The Judge Advocate General shall provide the Minister with a copy of every instruction and guideline issued under subsection (2) .

Appointment

18Subsection 165.21(1) of the Act is replaced by the following: 165.21 (1) The Governor in Council may appoint any officer or non-commissioned member who is a barrister or advocate of at least 10 years’ standing at the bar of a province and who has been a member of the Canadian Forces for at least ten years to be a military judge.

Panel established

19(1) The portion of subsection 165.22(1) of the Act before paragraph (a) is replaced by the following: 165.22 (1) There is established a Reserve Force Military Judges Panel to which the Governor in Council may name any officer or non-commissioned member who has been a member of the Canadian Forces for at least 10 years and who

Duty to inquire

20(1) Subparagraph 183.5(1)(a)(i) of the Act is replaced by the following: (i) an offence punishable under section 130 that is an offence under section 151, 152, 153, 153.1, 155, 160, 162, 162.1 , 163.1, 170, 171, 171.1, 172, 172.1, 172.2, 173, 213, 271, 272, 273, 279.01, 279.011, 279.02, 279.03, 280, 281, 286.1, 286.2, 286.3, 346 or 347 of the Criminal Code , (2) Paragraphs 183.5(2)(a) and (b) of the French version of the Act are replaced by the following: a) d’aviser dans les meilleurs délais la victime et tout témoin âgé de moins de dix-huit ans de leur droit de demander l’ordonnance; b) de rendre l’ordonnance, si le procureur de la poursuite, la victime ou tout témoin âgé de moins de dix-huit ans lui en fait la demande; (3) Subsection 183.5(2) of the Act is amended by striking out “and” at the end of paragraph (a), by adding “and” at the end of paragraph (b) and by adding the following after paragraph (b): (c) if an order is made, as soon as feasible, inform the victim and witness who are the subject of that order of its existence and of their right to apply to revoke or vary it. (4) Subsection 183.5(4) of the Act is amended by striking out “and” at the end of paragraph (a), by adding “and” at the end of paragraph (b) and by adding the following after paragraph (b): (c) if an order is made, as soon as feasible, inform the victim of the existence of the order and of their right to apply to revoke or vary it. (5) Subsection 183.5(6) of the Act is replaced by the following: (5.1) If the prosecutor makes an application for an order under paragraph (2)(b) or (4)(b), the military judge shall (a) if the victim or witness is present, inquire of them if they wish to be the subject of the order; (b) if the victim or witness is not present, inquire of the prosecutor if, before the application was made, they determined whether the victim or witness wishes to be the subject of the order; and (c) in any event, advise the prosecutor of their duty under subsection (5.2). Duty to inform (5.2) If the prosecutor makes the application, they shall, as soon as feasible after the military judge makes the order, inform the military judge that they have (a) informed the victim and the witness who are the subject of the order of its existence; (b) determined whether they wish to be the subject of the order; and (c) informed them of their right to apply to revoke or vary the order. Limitation (6) An order made under this section does not apply in either of the following circumstances : (a) the disclosure of information is made in the course of the administration of military justice and it is made for a purpose other than to make the information known in the community; or (b) the disclosure of information is made by a person who is the subject of the order and is about that person and their particulars, in any forum and for any purpose, and they did not intentionally or recklessly reveal the identity of, or reveal particulars likely to identify, any other person whose identity is protected by an order prohibiting the publication in any document or the broadcasting or transmission in any way of information that could identify that other person. Limitation — victims and witnesses (7) An order made under this section does not apply in respect of the disclosure of information by the victim or witness when it is not the purpose of the disclosure to make the information known to the public, including when the disclosure is made to a legal professional, a health care professional or a person in a relationship of trust with the victim or witness.

Limitation

21(1) Subsection 183.6(4) of the Act is replaced by the following: (4) An order made under this section does not apply in either of the following circumstances : (a) the disclosure is made in the course of the administration of military justice and it is made for a purpose other than to make the information known in the community; or (b) the disclosure of information is made by a person who is the subject of the order and is about that person and their particulars, in any forum and for any purpose, and they did not intentionally or recklessly reveal the identity of, or reveal particulars likely to identify, any other person whose identity is protected by an order prohibiting the publication in any document or the broadcasting or transmission in any way of information that could identify that other person. Limitation — victims, witnesses and other participants (4.1) An order made under this section does not apply in respect of the disclosure of information by the victim, witness or military justice system participant when it is not the purpose of the disclosure to make the information known to the public, including when the disclosure is made to a legal professional, a health care professional or a person in a relationship of trust with the victim, witness or military justice system participant. (2) Section 183.6 of the Act is amended by adding the following after subsection (6): Duty to inquire (6.1) If the prosecutor makes an application for an order under subsection (1) or (2), the military judge shall (a) if the victim, witness or military justice system participant is present, inquire of them if they wish to be the subject of the order; (b) if the victim, witness or military justice system participant is not present, inquire of the prosecutor if, before the application was made, they determined whether the victim, witness or military justice system participant wishes to be the subject of the order; and (c) in any event, advise the prosecutor of their duty under subsection (9.2). (3) Section 183.6 of the Act is amended by adding the following after subsection (9): Supplementary duty — military judge (9.1) If an order is made, the military judge shall, as soon as feasible, inform the victim, witness and military justice system participant who are the subject of that order of its existence and of their right to apply to revoke or vary it. Duty to inform (9.2) If the prosecutor makes the application, they shall, as soon as feasible after the military judge makes the order, inform the military judge that they have (a) informed the victim, witness and military justice system participant who are the subject of the order of its existence; (b) determined whether they wish to be the subject of the order; and (c) informed them of their right to apply to revoke or vary the order.

Application — vary or revoke

22The Act is amended by adding the following after section 183.6: 183.61 (1) If a person who is the subject of an order made under section 183.5 or 183.6 requests that the prosecutor have it varied or revoked, the prosecutor shall, as soon as feasible, make an application to vary or revoke the order on their behalf. Order — vary or revoke (2) If an application to vary or revoke an order made under section 183.5 or 183.6 is made by the person who is the subject of the order or by any other person, including a prosecutor, who is acting on their behalf, the military judge assigned to preside at the court martial or a military judge designated by the Chief Military Judge shall, without holding a hearing, vary or revoke the order, unless the military judge is of the opinion that to do so may affect the privacy interests of any person who is the subject of any order prohibiting the publication in any document or the broadcasting or transmission in any way of information that could identify that person. Hearing (3) If the military judge is of the opinion that varying or revoking the order that is the subject of an application referred to in subsection (2) may affect the privacy interests of any person who is the subject of any order prohibiting the publication in any document or the broadcasting or transmission in any way of information that could identify that person, the military judge shall hold a hearing to determine whether the order should be varied or revoked. Factor (4) In order to determine whether the order should be varied, the military judge shall take into account whether it is possible to do so in a manner that protects the privacy interests of any other person who is the subject of any order prohibiting the publication in any document or the broadcasting or transmission in any way of information that could identify that person. Notice (5) The applicant is not required to provide notice of the application to vary or revoke the order to the accused. Submissions (6) The accused shall not be permitted to make submissions in relation to the application. Notice of change (7) If the order is varied or revoked, the prosecutor shall notify the accused.

23(1) The definition designated offence in section 227 of the Act is replaced by the following: designated offence means a primary offence or a secondary offence. ( infraction désignée ) (2) Section 227 of the Act is amended by adding the following in alphabetical order: primary offence means (a) an offence referred to in any of paragraphs (a) to (e) of the definition primary offence in subsection 490.011(1) of the Criminal Code that is punishable under section 130 of this Act; or (b) an attempt or conspiracy to commit an offence referred to in paragraph (a). ( infraction primaire ) secondary offence means (a) an offence referred to in paragraph (a) of the definition secondary offence in subsection 490.011(1) of the Criminal Code that is punishable under section 130 of this Act; or (b) an attempt or conspiracy to commit an offence referred to in paragraph (a). ( infraction secondaire )

Order

24Section 227.01 of the Act is replaced by the following: 227.01 (1) Subject to subsection (5) , when a court martial imposes a sentence on a person in respect of a designated offence, it shall make an order in the prescribed form requiring the person to comply with the Sex Offender Information Registration Act if (a) a sentence of imprisonment of two years or more is imposed for the designated offence or, if the sentence is in respect of more than one offence, the court martial is of the opinion that a sentence of imprisonment of two years or more is justified for the designated offence; and (b) the victim of the designated offence is under the age of 18 years. Order — previous offence or obligation (2) Subject to subsection (5) , when a court martial imposes a sentence on a person in respect of a designated offence, it shall make an order in the prescribed form requiring the person to comply with the Sex Offender Information Registration Act if the prosecutor establishes that, before or after the coming into force of paragraphs (a) and (b) , the person (a) was previously convicted under section 130 in respect of a primary offence or was previously convicted under the Criminal Code of a primary offence , as defined in subsection 490.011(1) of that Act; or (b) is or was, as a result of a conviction, subject to an order or obligation under this or another Act of Parliament to comply with the Sex Offender Information Registration Act . Order — other circumstances (3) Subject to subsection (5), when a court martial imposes a sentence on a person in respect of a designated offence in circumstances in which neither subsection (1) nor (2) applies, or when the court martial finds the person not responsible on account of mental disorder for a designated offence, it shall make an order in the prescribed form requiring the person to comply with the Sex Offender Information Registration Act unless the court martial is satisfied that the person has established that (a) there would be no connection between making the order and the purpose of helping police services prevent or investigate crimes of a sexual nature by requiring the registration of information relating to sex offenders under that Act; or (b) the impact of the order on the person, including on their privacy or liberty, would be grossly disproportionate to the public interest in protecting society through the effective prevention or investigation of crimes of a sexual nature that is to be achieved by the registration of information relating to sex offenders under that Act. Factors (4) In determining whether to make an order under subsection (3) in respect of a person, the court martial shall consider (a) the nature and seriousness of the designated offence; (b) the victim’s age and other personal characteristics; (c) the nature and circumstances of the relationship between the person and the victim; (d) the personal characteristics and circumstances of the person; (e) the person’s criminal history, including the age at which they previously committed any offence and the length of time for which they have been at liberty without committing an offence; (f) the opinions of experts who have examined the person; and (g) any other factors that the court martial considers relevant. Limitation — secondary offences (5) A court martial shall make an order under any of subsections (1) to (3) in respect of a secondary offence only if the prosecutor applies for the order and establishes beyond a reasonable doubt that the person committed the secondary offence with the intent to commit a primary offence. Interpretation ( 6 ) For the purposes of paragraph ( 2 )(a), a previous conviction includes a conviction for an offence (a) for which a person is given an adult sentence , as defined in subsection 2(1) of the Youth Criminal Justice Act ; or (b) that is made in ordinary court , as defined in subsection 2(1) of the Young Offenders Act , chapter Y-1 of the Revised Statutes of Canada, 1985.

Duration of order — subsection 227.01(1) or (3)

25(1) The portion of subsection 227.02(2) of the Act before paragraph (c) is replaced by the following: (2) An order made under subsection 227.01(1) or ( 3 ) (a) subject to subsections (3) and (5) , ends 10 years after it was made if the maximum term of imprisonment for the offence in connection with which it was made is five years or less; (b) subject to subsections (3) and (5) , ends 20 years after it was made if the maximum term of imprisonment for the offence is 10 or 14 years; and (2) Subsections 227.02(2.1) to (5) of the Act are replaced by the following: Duration of order — offences in same proceeding (3) An order made under subsection 227.01(1) or (3) applies for life if (a) in the same proceeding, the person has been convicted of, or found not responsible on account of mental disorder for, two or more designated offences in connection with which an order under any of subsections 227.01(1) to (3) may be made; and (b) the court martial is satisfied that those offences demonstrate, or form part of, a pattern of behaviour showing that the person presents an increased risk of reoffending by committing a crime of a sexual nature. If court martial not satisfied (4) If paragraph (3)(a) applies in the circumstances but the court martial is not satisfied as set out in paragraph (3)(b), the duration of the order is determined by applying paragraphs (2)(a) to (c) to the designated offence with the longest maximum term of imprisonment. Duration of order — other order or obligation (5) An order made under subsection 227.01(1) or (3) applies for life if the person (a) was previously convicted of, or previously found not responsible on account of mental disorder for, an offence under section 130 in respect of a primary offence or a primary offence , as defined in subsection 490.011(1) of the Criminal Code , under that Act; or (b) is, or was at any time, the subject of an order or obligation under this or another Act of Parliament to comply with the Sex Offender Information Registration Act . Duration of order ( 6 ) An order made under subsection 227.01( 2 ) applies for life.

Reasons

26The Act is amended by adding the following after section 227.02: 227.021 The court martial shall (a) state the designated offence that forms the basis of an order made under subsection 227.01(1) and the term of imprisonment imposed; and (b) give reasons for a decision under subsection 227.01(3) or paragraph 227.02(3)(b).

Failure to make order

227.022If the court martial does not consider the matter under any of subsections 227.01 (1) to (3) at the time the sentence is imposed, or a finding of not responsible on account of mental disorder is made, for a primary offence , (a) the Chief Military Judge shall cause the Court Martial Administrator to convene a Standing Court Martial to do so; (b) the Court Martial Administrator shall, within 90 days after the day on which the sentence was imposed or the finding made , convene the court martial; (c) for greater certainty, the person continues to be liable to be dealt with under the Code of Service Discipline for that purpose; and (d) the court martial may issue a summons in the prescribed form to compel the attendance of the person at the hearing.

Pardon, record suspension or absolute discharge

27(1) Paragraph 227.03(1)(c) of the Act is replaced by the following: (c) if 20 years have elapsed since the order was made, in the case of an order referred to in paragraph 227.02(2)(c) or subsection 227.02(3), (5) or ( 6 ). (2) Subsection 227.03(3) of the Act is replaced by the following: (3) Despite subsections (1) and (2), a person may apply for a termination order once they receive a pardon, a record suspension is ordered, or they are absolutely discharged under paragraph 672.54(a) of the Criminal Code .

Termination order

28Subsection 227.04(1) of the Act is replaced by the following: 227.04 (1) The court martial shall make a termination order if it is satisfied that the person has established that (a) there would be no connection between continuing an order or obligation and the purpose of helping police services prevent or investigate crimes of a sexual nature by requiring the registration of information relating to sex offenders under the Sex Offender Information Registration Act ; or (b) the impact on the person of continuing an order or an obligation, including on their privacy or liberty, would be grossly disproportionate to the public interest in protecting society through the effective prevention or investigation of crimes of a sexual nature that is to be achieved by the registration of information relating to sex offenders under that Act . Factors (1.1) In determining whether to make the termination order, the court martial shall consider (a) the nature and seriousness of the offence that is the basis of an order or obligation; (b) the victim’s age and other personal characteristics; (c) the nature and circumstances of the relationship between the person and the victim; (d) the personal characteristics and circumstances of the person; (e) the person’s criminal history, including the age at which they previously committed any offence and the length of time for which they have been at liberty without committing an offence; (f) the opinions of experts who have examined the person; and (g) any other factors that the court martial considers relevant.

References

29Section 227.07 of the Act is amended by adding the following after subsection (2): (3) The reference in subsection (1) to the definition designated offence is a reference to that definition as it read from time to time before the day on which this subsection comes into force, the reference in paragraph (2)(c) to subsection 227.01(3) is a reference to that provision as it read from time to time before that day and the reference in that paragraph to subsection 490.012(3) of the Criminal Code is a reference to that provision as it read from time to time before October 26, 2023.

References

30Section 227.09 of the Act is amended by adding the following after subsection (3): (4) In paragraph (3)(d), the reference to the definition designated offence in section 227 of this Act is a reference to that definition as it read from time to time before the day on which this subsection comes into force and the reference to the definition designated offence in subsection 490.011(1) of the Criminal Code is a reference to that definition as it read from time to time before October 26, 2023.

Time for application — single offence

31(1) The portion of subsection 227.12(2) of the Act before paragraph (a) is replaced by the following: (2) A person may apply for a termination order if the following period has elapsed since they were sentenced, or found not responsible on account of mental disorder, for the offence listed in the notice : (2) Subsections 227.12(3) and (4) of the Act are replaced by the following: More than one offence (3) If more than one offence is listed in the notice, the person may apply for a termination order if 20 years have elapsed since they were sentenced, or found not responsible on account of mental disorder, for the most recent offence. Pardon or record suspension or absolute discharge (4) Despite subsections (2) and (3), a person may apply for a termination order once they receive a pardon, a record suspension is ordered, or they are absolutely discharged under paragraph 672.54(a) of the Criminal Code .

Termination order

32Subsection 227.13(1) of the Act is replaced by the following: 227.13 (1) The court martial shall make an order terminating the obligation if it is satisfied that the person has established that (a) there would be no connection between continuing the obligation and the purpose of helping police services prevent or investigate crimes of a sexual nature by requiring the registration of information relating to sex offenders under the Sex Offender Information Registration Act ; or (b) the impact on the person of continuing the obligation, including on their privacy or liberty, would be grossly disproportionate to the public interest in protecting society through the effective prevention or investigation of crimes of a sexual nature that is to be achieved by the registration of information relating to sex offenders under the that Act . Factors (1.1) In determining whether to make the termination order, the court martial shall consider (a) the nature and seriousness of the offence that is the basis of the obligation; (b) the victim’s age and other personal characteristics; (c) the nature and circumstances of the relationship between the person and the victim; (d) the personal characteristics and circumstances of the person; (e) the person’s criminal history, including the age at which they previously committed any offence and the length of time for which they have been at liberty without committing an offence; (f) the opinions of experts who have examined the person; and (g) any other factors that the court martial considers relevant.

33Paragraph 227.15(1)(b) of the Act is replaced by the following: (b) appeal the legality of a decision made under section 227.01 or 227.02 , subsection 227.04(1), 227.1(4) or 227.13(1) or section 227.22 or 227.23 of this Act — or appeal a decision made under section 490.012 or 490.013 or subsection 490.016(1), 490.023(2), 490.027(1), 490.02905(2) or (2.2), 490.029051(2) or (3) , 490.02909(1), 490.029111(2), 490.029112(2) or (3) , 490.02913(1), 490.04(4) or (5) or 490.05(4) or (5) of the Criminal Code — within the required period;

34Paragraph 227.18(1)(b) of the Act is replaced by the following: (b) for the purpose of a proceeding under section 227.01 or 227.02 , subsection 227.04(1), 227.1(4) or 227.13(1) or section 227.22 or 227.23 or for the purpose of an appeal respecting the legality of a decision made under any of those provisions, whether a person who is subject to the Code of Service Discipline, or who is an officer, or non-commissioned member, of the primary reserve, is, or was at any time, required to comply with an order made under section 227.01 of this Act or section 490.012 of the Criminal Code or with an obligation under section 227.06 of this Act, section 490.019 or 490.02901 of the Criminal Code or section 36.1 of the International Transfer of Offenders Act ;

Application for exemption order

35The Act is amended by adding the following after section 227.21: Additional Orders 227.22 (1) A person may apply for an order exempting them from an order made under section 227.01 on or after April 15, 2011 but before the day on which this subsection comes into force. Jurisdiction (2) The application shall be made to the Chief Military Judge if the applicant is subject to the Code of Service Discipline or is an officer, or non-commissioned member, of the primary reserve at the time. In any other case, the application shall be made to a court under section 490.04 of the Criminal Code . Court martial (3) On receipt of the application, the Chief Military Judge shall cause the Court Martial Administrator to convene a Standing Court Martial to try the issue. Limitation — exemption order (4) The court martial shall not make an exemption order in respect of an application made under subsection (1) if (a) the sentence for the designated offence that is the basis of the order made under section 227.01 is a term of imprisonment of two years or more — or, if the sentence is in respect of multiple offences, one of which is the designated offence, the court martial was, at the time of imposing the sentence, of the opinion that a sentence of imprisonment of two years or more was justified for the designated offence — and the victim of the designated offence was under the age of 18 years; or (b) before or after the order under section 227.01 was made, the person (i) was convicted of an offence under section 130 in respect of a primary offence — or was convicted under the Criminal Code of a primary offence , as defined in subsection 490.011(1) of that Act — that is not the offence on the basis of which the order was made, or (ii) is or was, as a result of a conviction, subject to another order under this or another Act of Parliament to comply with the Sex Offender Information Registration Act . Exemption order (5) Subject to subsection (4), the court martial shall make an exemption order if it is satisfied that the person has established that, at the time the order was made, (a) there was no connection between the order and the purpose of helping police services prevent or investigate crimes of a sexual nature by requiring the registration of information relating to sex offenders under the Sex Offender Information Registration Act ; or (b) the impact of the order on the person, including on their privacy or liberty, was grossly disproportionate to the public interest in protecting society through the effective prevention or investigation of crimes of a sexual nature that is to be achieved by the registration of information relating to sex offenders under that Act. Factors (6) In determining whether to make the exemption order, the court martial shall consider (a) the nature and seriousness of the offence that is the basis of the order; (b) the victim’s age and other personal characteristics; (c) the nature and circumstances of the relationship between the person and the victim; (d) the personal characteristics and circumstances of the person; (e) the person’s criminal history, including the age at which they previously committed any offence and the length of time for which they have been at liberty without committing an offence; (f) the opinions of experts who have examined the person; and (g) any other factors that the court martial considers relevant. Reasons for decision (7) The court martial shall give reasons for its decision. Removal of information from database (8) If the court martial makes an exemption order, it shall also make an order requiring the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to permanently remove from the database all information that relates to the person that was registered in the database on receipt of a copy of the order made under section 227.01.

Application for variation order

227.23(1) A person may apply for an order to vary the duration of (a) an order made under section 227.01, if the order applies for life under subsection 227.02(2.1), as it read from time to time before the day on which this paragraph comes into force; or (b) an obligation under section 227.06, if the obligation applies for life under paragraph 227.09(3)(d) and none of the offences listed in the prescribed form served on the person in respect of the obligation have a maximum term of imprisonment for life. Jurisdiction (2) The application shall be made to the Chief Military Judge if the applicant is subject to the Code of Service Discipline or is an officer, or non-commissioned member, of the primary reserve at the time. In any other case, the application shall be made to a court under section 490.05 of the Criminal Code . Court martial (3) On receipt of the application, the Chief Military Judge shall cause the Court Martial Administrator to convene a Standing Court Martial to try the issue. Variation order (4) The court martial shall make the variation order if it is satisfied that the person has established that the offences that are the basis of the order or obligation do not demonstrate, or do not form part of, a pattern of behaviour showing that the person presents an increased risk of reoffending by committing a crime of a sexual nature. Variation of duration (5) If the court martial makes a variation order, it shall set out the duration of the order or obligation in the order, which shall be determined by applying (a) subsection 227.02(2) to the offence in question with the longest maximum term of imprisonment, in the case of an order; or (b) paragraphs 227.09(3)(a) and (b) to the offence in question with the longest maximum term of imprisonment, in the case of an obligation. Reasons for decision (6) The court martial shall give reasons for its decision. Notification (7) The court martial shall cause the Provost Marshal to be notified of a variation order made under this section.

36Paragraph 230(g) of the Act is replaced by the following: (g) the legality of a decision made under section 227.01 or 227.02 ;

37Paragraph 230.1(h) of the Act is replaced by the following: (h) the legality of a decision made under section 227.01 or 227.02 ;

Appeal from order

38Section 230.2 of the Act is replaced by the following: 230.2 Subject to subsection 232(3), a person who applied for an exemption order under section 227.1 or 227.22 , a termination order under section 227.03 or 227.12 or a variation order under section 227.23 and the Minister or counsel instructed by the Minister have the right to appeal to the Court Martial Appeal Court in respect of the legality of the decision made by the court martial.

Appeal against decision

39(1) Subsections 240.5(1) and (2) of the Act are replaced by the following: 240.5 (1) On the hearing of an appeal respecting the legality of a decision made under section 227.01 or 227.02 or subsection 227.04(1), 227.1(4) or 227.13(1) the Court Martial Appeal Court, or another court hearing the appeal, may (a) dismiss the appeal; or (b) allow the appeal and order a new hearing, quash or amend the order or make an order that may be made under the applicable provision. Appeal against decision — section 227.22 or 227.23 (1.1) On the hearing of an appeal respecting the legality of a decision made under section 227.22 or 227.23, the Court Martial Appeal Court, or another court hearing the appeal, may (a) dismiss the appeal; or (b) allow the appeal and order a new hearing, quash or amend the exemption order or variation order or make an order that may be made, as the case may be, under subsection 227.22(5) or section 227.23. Requirements relating to notice (2) If the Court Martial Appeal Court or other court makes an order that may be made under section 227.01, it shall cause the requirements set out in section 227.05 to be fulfilled.

Appointment

40Section 249.18 of the Act is replaced by the following: 249.18 (1) The Governor in Council may appoint an officer who is a barrister or advocate with at least ten years standing at the bar of a province to be the Director of Defence Counsel Services. Tenure of office (2) The Director of Defence Counsel Services holds office during good behaviour for a term of not more than seven years but may be subject to remedial or disciplinary measures in accordance with section 249.181 . Term not renewable (3) The Director of Defence Counsel Services is not eligible to be reappointed. Suspension (4) On receipt of a request referred to in subsection 249.181(1), the Governor in Council may, if the Governor in Council is of the opinion that there are exceptional circumstances that justify it, suspend the Director of Defence Counsel Services from office until the Governor in Council decides whether to impose any remedial or disciplinary measures. Definition of exceptional circumstances (5) For the purposes of subsection (4), exceptional circumstances include circumstances in which there are allegations of serious misconduct or allegations related to a risk to occupational health and safety or to a risk of injury to international relations, national defence or national security.

Inquiry

249.181(1) The Minister may request of the Governor in Council that an inquiry be held to determine whether the Director of Defence Counsel Services should be subject to remedial or disciplinary measures for any reason set out in paragraphs (12)(a) to (e). Appointment of judge (2) On receipt of a request, the Governor in Council may appoint a judge of a superior court to conduct the inquiry. Powers (3) The judge has all the powers, rights and privileges that are vested in a superior court, including the power to (a) issue a summons requiring any person to appear at the time and place specified in the summons in order to testify about all matters within the person’s knowledge relative to the inquiry and to produce any document or thing relative to the inquiry that the person has or controls; and (b) administer oaths and examine any person on oath. Staff (4) The judge may engage the services of counsel and other persons having technical or specialized knowledge to assist the judge in conducting the inquiry, establish the terms and conditions of their engagement and, with the approval of the Treasury Board, fix and pay their remuneration and expenses. Inquiry in public (5) Subject to subsections (6) and (7), the inquiry shall be conducted in public. Confidentiality of inquiry (6) The judge may, on application, take any measures and make any order that the judge considers necessary to ensure the confidentiality of the inquiry if, after having considered all available alternative measures, the judge is satisfied that (a) there is a real and substantial risk that matters involving international relations, national defence or national security will be disclosed; (b) there is a real and substantial risk to the fairness of the inquiry such that the need to prevent disclosure outweighs the societal interest that the inquiry be conducted in public; or (c) there is a serious possibility that the life, liberty or security of a person will be endangered. Confidentiality of application (7) If the judge considers it appropriate, the judge may take any measures and make any order that the judge considers necessary to ensure the confidentiality of a hearing held in respect of an application under subsection (6). Rules of evidence (8) The judge is not bound by any legal or technical rules of evidence and may receive, and base a decision on, evidence presented in the proceedings that they consider credible or trustworthy in the circumstances of the case. Intervenors (9) An interested party may, with leave of the judge, intervene in the inquiry on any terms and conditions that the judge considers appropriate. Notice to Director of Defence Counsel Services (10) The Director of Defence Counsel Services shall be given reasonable notice of the subject matter of the inquiry and of the time and place of any hearing and shall be given an opportunity, in person or by counsel, to be heard at the hearing, to cross-examine witnesses and to present evidence. Report to Minister (11) After the inquiry has been completed, the judge shall submit a report containing their findings and recommendations, if any, to the Minister. Recommendations (12) The judge may, in the report, recommend that the Director of Defence Counsel Services be suspended without pay or removed from office or that any other disciplinary measure or any remedial measure be taken if, in the judge’s opinion, the Director (a) has become incapacitated from the proper execution of that office by reason of infirmity; (b) has committed misconduct; (c) has failed in the proper execution of that office; (d) has been placed, by conduct or otherwise, in a position that is incompatible with the due execution of that office; or (e) no longer satisfies the minimum standards and conditions of service applicable to officers. Transmission of report to Governor in Council (13) The Minister shall send the report to the Governor in Council who may, if the Governor in Council considers it appropriate, suspend the Director of Defence Counsel Services without pay, remove the Director from office or impose any other disciplinary measure or any remedial measure.

Acting Director of Defence Counsel Services

249.182If the Director of Defence Counsel Services is absent or unable to act or the office of Director of Defence Counsel Services is vacant, the Minister may authorize any officer who is a barrister or advocate with standing at the bar of a province to exercise the powers and perform the duties and functions of the Director of Defence Counsel Services, but that officer may act as the Director of Defence Counsel Services for a period of more than 90 days only with the approval of the Governor in Council.

41The definition interference complaint in section 250 of the Act is replaced by the following: interference complaint means a complaint made under subsection 250.19(1) or (1.1) . ( plainte pour ingérence )

Obligation to make complaint

42Subsection 250.19(1) of the Act is replaced by the following: 250.19 (1) Any member of the military police or person performing policing duties or functions under the Provost Marshal General’s supervision who believes on reasonable grounds that any officer, non-commissioned member or senior official of the Department has improperly interfered with the performance of any of the policing duties or functions that are prescribed for the purposes of section 250.18 in regulations made by the Governor in Council shall make a complaint about that person under this Division. Right to make complaint (1.1) If they believe on reasonable grounds that an officer, non-commissioned member or senior official of the Department has improperly interfered with the performance of any of the policing duties or functions that are prescribed for the purposes of section 250.18 in regulations made by the Governor in Council, any of the following may make a complaint about that person under this Division: (a) a victim or other person affected by the performance of the policing duty or function; or (b) an individual acting on behalf of a victim referred to in paragraph (a).

Complaint about Provost Marshal General

43Subsection 250.26(2) of the Act is replaced by the following: (2) If a conduct complaint is about the conduct of the Provost Marshal General , the Minister, or a person designated by the Minister , is responsible for dealing with the complaint and has all the powers and duties of the Provost Marshal General under this Division.

Exception

44Subsection 250.49(2) of the Act is replaced by the following: (2) If the Provost Marshal General is the subject of the complaint, the review shall be conducted by the Minister .

Exceptions

45Subsection 250.5(2) of the Act is replaced by the following: (2) If the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Deputy Minister or the Provost Marshal General is the subject of the complaint, the review shall be conducted by the Minister.

Prosecution — limitation

46Section 303.1 of the Act is amended by adding the following after subsection (1): (1.1) A prosecutor shall not commence or continue a prosecution against a person who is the subject of the order unless, in the opinion of the prosecutor, (a) the person knowingly failed to comply with the order; (b) the privacy interests of another person who is the subject of any order prohibiting the publication in any document or the broadcasting or transmission in any way of information that could identify that person have been compromised; and (c) a warning to the individual is not appropriate.

Replacement of “Canadian Forces Provost Marshal” and “Provost Marshal”

47(1) The Act is amended by replacing “Canadian Forces Provost Marshal” and “Provost Marshal” with “Provost Marshal General” in the following provisions: (a) the heading before section 18.3; (b) subsection 18.3(5); (c) the portion of section 18.4 before paragraph (a); (d) paragraph 215(2)(c); (e) subsection 227.04(3); (f) subparagraph 227.05(1)(d)(iii); (g) subsection 227.07(1); (h) subsection 227.08(4); (i) section 227.11; (j) subsection 227.13(3); (k) subsection 227.15(4); (l) the portion of subsection 227.15(5) before paragraph (a); (m) subsection 227.16(3); (n) the portion of subsection 227.18(1) before paragraph (a); (o) the portion of subsection 227.18(2) before paragraph (a); (p) subsection 227.19(1); (q) the portion of subsection 227.19(2) before paragraph (a); (r) section 227.21; (s) subsection 240.5(3); (t) subsection 250.21(1); (u) subparagraphs 250.21(2)(c)(i) to (iii); (v) section 250.22; (w) subsection 250.24(2); (x) section 250.25; (y) subsection 250.26(1); (z) section 250.261; (z.1) subsection 250.27(1); (z.2) the portion of subsection 250.27(4) before paragraph (a); (z.3) paragraph 250.27(6)(c); (z.4) subsection 250.28(1); (z.5) the portion of section 250.29 before paragraph (a); (z.6) the portion of subsection 250.3(1) before paragraph (a); (z.7) paragraphs 250.31(2)(a) and (b); (z.8) subsection 250.32(3); (z.9) subsections 250.34(2) and (3); (z.91) subsections 250.35(1) and (3); (z.92) paragraph 250.36(e); (z.93) paragraph 250.37(1)(d); (z.94) subsections 250.38(3) and (5); (z.95) section 250.39; (z.96) paragraph 250.4(1)(b); (z.97) section 250.48; (z.98) subsection 250.49(1); and (z.99) subsection 250.53(2). Replacement of “Provost Marshal” — English version (2) The English version of the Act is amended by replacing “Provost Marshal” with “Provost Marshal General” in the following provisions: (a) the portion of subsection 250.27(5) before paragraph (a); (b) the portion of subsection 250.28(2) before paragraph (a); (c) the portion of subsection 250.28(3) before paragraph (a); and (d) subsections 250.3(2) and (3).

References

48Subsection 490.02(3) of the Criminal Code is replaced by the following: (3) The reference in subsection (1) to the definition designated offence is a reference to that definition as it read from time to time before October 26, 2023 , the reference in paragraph (2)(b) to subsection 490.012(3) is a reference to that provision as it read from time to time before that day and the reference in that paragraph to subsection 227.01(3) of the National Defence Act is a reference to that provision as it read from time to time before the day on which section 48 of the Military Justice System Modernization Act comes into force.

References

49Subsection 490.022(4) of the Act is replaced by the following: (4) In paragraph (3)(d), the reference to the definition designated offence in subsection 490.011(1) of this Act is a reference to that definition as it read from time to time before October 26, 2023 and the reference to the definition designated offence in section 227 of the National Defence Act is a reference to that definition as it read from time to time before the day on which section 49 of the Military Justice System Modernization Act comes into force.

Limitation — application

50(1) Paragraphs 490.04(1)(a) and (b) of the Act are replaced by the following: (a) an order made under section 490.012 on or after April 15, 2011 but before October 26, 2023 ; (a.1) an order made under section 227.01 of the National Defence Act on or after April 15, 2011 but before the day on which this paragraph comes into force; or (b) an obligation under section 490.02901, or under section 36.1 of the International Transfer of Offenders Act , that began before October 26, 2023 . (2) Subsection 490.04(2) of the Act is replaced by the following: (2) A person is not permitted to apply under paragraph (1)(b) if, on or after October 26, 2023 , they have made an application for an exemption order under section 490.02905 or 490.029111 in respect of the same obligation. (3) Paragraph 490.04(3)(a) of the Act is replaced by the following: (a) a superior court of criminal jurisdiction, (i) if the application is made under paragraph (1)(a) in respect of an order made by such a court, or (ii) if the application is made under paragraph (1)(a.1) and the Chief Military Judge does not have jurisdiction to receive the application under subsection 227.22(2) of the National Defence Act ; or (4) The portion of paragraph 490.04(4) of the Act before subparagraph (b)(i) is replaced by the following: Limitation — exemption order (4) The court shall not make an exemption order in respect of an application made under paragraph (1)(a) or (a.1) if (a) in the case of an order referred to in paragraph (1)(a) , the designated offence that is the basis of the order was prosecuted by indictment, the sentence for that offence is a term of imprisonment of two years or more and the victim of that offence was under the age of 18 years; (a.1) in the case of an order referred to in paragraph (1)(a.1) , the sentence for the designated offence , as defined in section 227 of the National Defence Act , that is the basis of the order is a term of imprisonment of two years or more and the victim of that offence was under the age of 18 years; or (b) before or after the order referred to in paragraph (1)(a) or (a.1) was made, the person (5) Subsection 490.04(8) of the Act is replaced by the following: Removal of information from database (8) If the court makes an exemption order, it shall also make an order requiring the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to permanently remove from the database all information that relates to the person that was registered in the database on receipt of a copy of the order made under section 490.012 or under section 227.01 of the National Defence Act , the notice referred to in section 490.02901 or the Form 1 referred to in subparagraph 8(4)(a)(ii) of the International Transfer of Offenders Act , as the case may be.

51(1) Paragraph 490.05(1)(a) of the Act is replaced by the following: (a) an order made under section 490.012, if the order applies for life under subsection 490.013(2.1), as it read from time to time before October 26, 2023 ; (a.1) an order made under section 227.01 of the National Defence Act , if the order applies for life under subsection 227.02(2.1) of that Act, as it read from time to time before the day on which this paragraph comes into force; (2) Paragraphs 490.05(1)(c) and (d) of the Act are replaced by the following: (b.1) an obligation under section 227.06 of the National Defence Act , if the obligation applies for life under paragraph 227.09(3)(d) of that Act and none of the offences listed in the prescribed form served on the person under that Act in respect of the obligation have a maximum term of imprisonment for life; (c) an obligation under section 490.02901, if the obligation applies for life under paragraph 490.02904(3)(d), the obligation began before October 26, 2023 and the condition set out in paragraph 490.029051(1)(b) is met; or (d) an obligation under section 36.1 of the International Transfer of Offenders Act , if the obligation applies for life under subsection 36.2(3) of that Act, the obligation began before October 26, 2023 and the condition set out in paragraph 490.029112(1)(b) is met. (3) Paragraph 490.05(3)(a) of the Act is replaced by the following: (a) a superior court of criminal jurisdiction, (i) if the application is made under paragraph (1)(a) in respect of an order made by such a court, or (ii) if the application is made under paragraph (1)(a.1) or (b.1) and the Chief Military Judge does not have jurisdiction to receive the application under subsection 227.23(2) of the National Defence Act ; or (4) Subsection 490.05(5) of the Act is amended by adding the following after paragraph (a): (a.1) subsection 227.02(2) of the National Defence Act to the offence in question with the longest maximum term of imprisonment, in the case of an order under section 227.01 of that Act; (5) Subsection 490.05(5) of the Act is amended by adding the following after paragraph (b): (b.1) paragraphs 227.09(3)(a) and (b) of the National Defence Act to the offence in question with the longest maximum term of imprisonment, in the case of an obligation under section 227.06 of that Act;

Removal of information from database

52Subsection 490.06(2) of the Act is replaced by the following: (2) If an appeal court makes an exemption order, it shall also make an order requiring the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to permanently remove from the database all information that relates to the person that was registered in the database on receipt of a copy of the order made under section 490.012 or under section 227.01 of the National Defence Act , the notice referred to in section 490.02901 or the Form 1 referred to in subparagraph 8(4)(a)(ii) of the International Transfer of Offenders Act , as the case may be.

53The Act is amended by replacing “Canadian Forces Provost Marshal” with “Provost Marshal General” in section 5 of Form 52 of Part XXVIII.

54Section 13 of the Strengthening Military Justice in the Defence of Canada Act is repealed.

Replacement of “Canadian Forces Provost Marshal”

55The Sex Offender Information Registration Act is amended by replacing “Canadian Forces Provost Marshal” with “Provost Marshal General” in the following provisions: (a) the portion of subsection 8.2(1) before paragraph (a); (b) the portion of subsection 8.2(2) before paragraph (a); (c) subsections 8.2(3) to (5); (d) the portion of subsection 8.2(6) before paragraph (a); (e) the portion of subsection 8.2(7) before paragraph (a); and (f) subsection 12(2).

Words and expressions

56The words and expressions used in sections 57 to 65 have the same meaning as in the National Defence Act .

Canadian Forces Provost Marshal

57(1) The person who holds office as the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal immediately before the day on which section 4 comes into force (a) continues, for the remainder of the term for which they were appointed, to hold office, but they hold office during pleasure and as the Provost Marshal General; and (b) is deemed, for that term, to have been appointed under subsection 18.3(1) of the National Defence Act , as amended by that section 4 . No compensation (2) Despite the provisions of any contract, agreement or order, the person referred to in subsection (1) has no right to claim or receive any compensation, damages, indemnity or other form of relief from His Majesty in right of Canada or from any employee or agent of His Majesty due to the changes made to their appointment by that subsection. Inquiry continued (3) An inquiry under subsections 18.3(3) and (4) of the National Defence Act , as they read immediately before the day on which section 4 comes into force, that, immediately before that day, had not been completed, is continued in accordance with those subsections except that (a) the inquiry committee must provide a record of the inquiry and a report of its conclusions to the Minister, who may recommend to the Governor in Council that the Provost Marshal General be removed from office; and (b) the Governor in Council has the power referred to in that subsection 18.3(3) to remove the Provost Marshal General from office.

General Instructions or guidelines by Vice Chief of Defence Staff

58(1) An instruction or guideline issued under subsection 18.5(2) of the National Defence Act , as it read immediately before the day on which section 6 comes into force, that is in effect immediately before that day is deemed to be an instruction or guideline issued by the Minister under subsection 18.5(2) of the National Defence Act , as amended by that section 6 . Copy to Minister (2) The Vice Chief of the Defence Staff must provide the Minister with a copy of every instruction or guideline referred to in subsection (1) as soon as feasible after the day on which section 6 comes into force.

Specific Instructions or guidelines by Vice Chief of Defence Staff

59An instruction or guideline issued under subsection 18.5(3) of the National Defence Act , as it read immediately before the day on which section 6 comes into force, that is in effect immediately before that day ceases to be in effect.

Transfer of ongoing investigations

60As soon as feasible after the day on which section 7 comes into force, but no later than 60 days after that day, the Canadian Forces must transfer to the civilian authority having jurisdiction in the matter responsibility for any ongoing investigation into an offence referred to in any of paragraphs 70(d) to (h) of the National Defence Act , as enacted by that section 7 , that was, or is alleged to have been, committed in Canada and for which a charge has not been laid under that Act or an information has not been laid under the Criminal Code before that day.

Application of National Defence Act

61The National Defence Act , as it read immediately before the day on which section 7 comes into force, continues to apply in respect of an offence referred to in any of paragraphs 70(d) to (h) of that Act, as enacted by that section 7 , that was, or is alleged to have been, committed in Canada and for which a charge has been laid under that Act or an information has been laid under the Criminal Code before that day.

Military judges — service infractions

62No charge alleging the commission of a service infraction, laid before the day on which section 11 comes into force, is to be proceeded with against a military judge on or after that day.

Director of Military Prosecutions

63(1) The person who holds office as the Director of Military Prosecutions immediately before the day on which section 15 comes into force (a) continues to hold office for the remainder of the term for which they were appointed; (b) is deemed, for that term, to have been appointed under subsection 165.1(1) of the National Defence Act , as amended by that section 15 ; and (c) is, despite subsection 165.1(3) of the National Defence Act , as amended by that section 15 , eligible on the expiry of that term to be appointed under that subsection 165.1(1) for a single additional term of not more than seven years. Inquiry continued (2) An inquiry under subsections 165.1(2) and (2.1) of the National Defence Act , as they read immediately before the day on which section 15 comes into force, that, immediately before that day, had not been completed, is continued in accordance with those subsections except that the inquiry committee must make its recommendation to the Governor in Council and that the Governor in Council has the power referred to in that subsection 165.1(2) to remove the Director of Military Prosecutions from office.

Specific instructions or guidelines by Judge Advocate General

64(1) An instruction or guideline issued under subsection 165.17(3) of the National Defence Act , as it read immediately before the day on which subsection 17 (1) comes into force, that applies in respect of a prosecution that, immediately before that day, had not been completed is deemed to be an instruction or guideline issued by the Minister under subsection 165.17(3) of the National Defence Act , as amended by that subsection 17 (1). Availability to public (2) Subsection 165.17(5) of the National Defence Act , as amended by subsection 17 (2), applies in respect of a specific instruction or guideline referred to in subsection (1).

Director of Defence Counsel Services

65(1) The person who holds office as the Director of Defence Counsel Services immediately before the day on which section 40 comes into force (a) continues to hold office for the remainder of the term for which they were appointed; (b) is deemed, for that term, to have been appointed under subsection 249.18(1) of the National Defence Act , as amended by that section 40 ; and (c) is, despite subsection 249.18(3) of the National Defence Act , as amended by that section 40 , eligible on the expiry of that term to be appointed under that subsection 249.18(1) for a single additional term of not more than seven years. Inquiry continued (2) An inquiry under subsections 249.18(2) and (2.1) of the National Defence Act , as they read immediately before the day on which section 40 comes into force, that, immediately before that day, had not been completed, is continued in accordance with those subsections except that the inquiry committee must make its recommendation to the Governor in Council and that the Governor in Council has the power referred to in that subsection 249.18(2) to remove the Director of Defence Counsel Services from office.

This Act

66On the first day on which both sections 35 and 47 of this Act are in force, (a) subsection 227.23(7) of the National Defence Act is replaced by the following: Notification (7) The court martial shall cause the Provost Marshal General to be notified of a decision to make a variation order under this section. (b) subsection 240.5(3) of the National Defence Act is replaced by the following: Notice to Provost Marshal General (3) If the Court Martial Appeal Court or other court makes an order that may be made under subsection 227.04(1) or 227.13(1), it shall cause the Provost Marshal General to be notified of the decision. (c) subsections 240.5(6) and (7) of the National Defence Act are replaced by the following: Requirements relating to notice (6) If the Court Martial Appeal Court or other court quashes an exemption order made under section 227.22, it shall cause the Provost Marshal General to be notified of the decision and shall cause the person who applied for the order to be informed of section 119.1 and sections 4 to 7.1 of the Sex Offender Information Registration Act . Notice — variation order (7) If the Court Martial Appeal Court or other court quashes a variation order made under section 227.23, it shall cause the Provost Marshal General to be notified of the decision.

2015, c. 23

67(1) In this section, other Act means the Tougher Penalties for Child Predators Act . (2) If section 32 of the other Act comes into force before section 10 of this Act, then that section 10 is repealed. (3) If section 10 of this Act comes into force before section 32 of the other Act, then that section 32 is repealed. (4) If section 32 of the other Act comes into force on the same day as section 10 of this Act, then that section 10 is deemed never to have come into force and is repealed.

2024, c. 23

68On the first day on which both subsection 1(1) of An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make consequential amendments to other Acts (child sexual abuse and exploitation material) , chapter 23 of the Statutes of Canada, 2024, and section 7 of this Act are in force, subparagraph 70(d)(xi) of the National Defence Act is replaced by the following: (xi) section 163.1 (child sexual abuse and exploitation material),

Order in council

69(1) Sections 2 , 4 to 6 , 41 to 45 , 47 , 53 and 55 come into force on a day to be fixed by order of the Governor in Council. Order in council (2) Sections 3 , 15 to 17 , 40 and 54 come into force on a day to be fixed by order of the Governor in Council. 60th day after royal assent (3) Sections 7 and 8 come into force on the 60th day after the day on which this Act receives royal assent. Order in council (4) Sections 9 , 11 to 14 , 18 and 19 come into force on a day or days to be fixed by order of the Governor in Council Order in council (5) Sections 10 , 23 to 39 and 48 to 52 come into force on a day to be fixed by order of the Governor in Council. Order in council (6) Sections 20 to 22 and 46 come into force on a day to be fixed by order of the Governor in Council.

Official record· parl.ca
Official drafter summary (parl.ca)

This enactment amends provisions of the National Defence Act that relate to the military justice system in response to the Report of the Third Independent Review Authority to the Minister of National Defence and the Report of the Independent External Comprehensive Review of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces. In response to those reports, the enactment amends that Act to, among other things, (a) modify the process for appointing the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal, the Director of Military Prosecutions and the Director of Defence Counsel Services with a view to enhancing their independence; (b) affirm the Judge Advocate General’s respect for the independence of authorities in the military justice system in the exercise of the Judge Advocate General’s superintendence of the administration of military justice; (c) remove the court martial’s jurisdiction to try a person in relation to an offence under the Criminal Code that is alleged to have been committed in Canada and that is of a sexual nature or committed for a sexual purpose and provide for exceptions; (d) [ Deleted ] (e) expand the class of persons who are eligible to be appointed as a military judge; (f) expand the class of persons who may make an interference complaint and provide that a member of the military police or person performing policing duties or functions under the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal’s supervision must make such a complaint in certain circumstances; and (g) change the title of the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal to the Provost Marshal General. In addition, the enactment amends the National Defence Act to remove military judges from the summary hearing system and to provide that, in the context of a service offence, an individual acting on behalf of a victim may request that a victim’s liaison officer be appointed to assist them. It further amends that Act to harmonize the sex offender information and publication ban provisions with the amendments made to the Criminal Code in An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Sex Offender Information Registration Act and the International Transfer of Offenders Act . Finally, it amends the Criminal Code to, among other things, provide superior courts of criminal jurisdiction with the jurisdiction to hear applications for an exemption in respect of orders to comply with the Sex Offender Information Registration Act made under the National Defence Act and applications to vary the duration of such orders. Available on the House of Commons website at the following address: www.ourcommons.ca 1st Session, 45th Parliament, 3 - 4 Charles III, 2025 - 2026 HOUSE OF COMMONS OF CANADA BILL C-11 An Act to amend the National Defence Act and other Acts His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows: Short Title Short title 1 This Act may be cited as the Military Justice System Modernization Act . R.‍S.‍, c. N-5 National Defence Act 2 Section 9.‍2 of the National Defence Act is amended by adding the following after subsection ( 1 ): Clarification — independence ( 1.‍1 ) For greater certainty, in the exercise of the Judge Advocate General’s superintendence, the Judge Advocate General respects the independence of authorities in the military justice system, including the Provost Marshal General, the Director of Military Prosecutions and the Director of Defence Counsel Services. 3 ( 1 ) Paragraph 12 ( 3 )‍(a) of the Act is replaced by the following: (a) prescribing the rates and conditions of issue of pay of military judges; ( 2 ) The portion of subsection 12 ( 4 ) of the Act before paragraph (a) is replaced by the following: Retroactive effect ( 4 ) Regulations made under paragraph ( 3 )‍(a) may, if they so provide, have retroactive effect. However, they may not have effect 4 Subsections 18.‍3 ( 1 ) to ( 4 ) of the Act are replaced by the following: Appointment 18.‍3 ( 1 ) The Governor in Council may appoint an officer who has been a member of the military police for at least 10 years to be the Provost Marshal General. Appointment within limited period Start of inserted block ( 1.‍1 ) The appointment must be made within 120 days of the day on which the office of Provost Marshal General becomes vacant. End of inserted block Rank ( 2 ) The Provost Marshal General holds a rank that is not less than brigadier-general. Tenure of office ( 3 ) The Provost Marshal General holds office during pleasure for a term not exceeding four years. 5 Paragraph 18.‍4 (a) of the Act is replaced by the following: (a) the supervision of the performance of policing duties and functions; 6 Sections 18.‍5 and 18.‍6 of the Act are replaced by the following: Acting Provost Marshal General 18.‍41 If the Provost Marshal General is absent or unable to act or the office of Provost Marshal General is vacant, the Minister may authorize any officer who is a member of the military police to exercise the powers and perform the duties and functions of...

AI-assisted analysis
What MPs debatedCONTESTED626 speeches · 102 MPs · 153,460 words
Points of contention
  • Concerns about the lack of capacity in civilian courts to handle increased cases
  • Debate over whether the transfer of jurisdiction improves justice for victims
  • The independence of military justice leaders vs political interference
  • Ongoing issues with sexual misconduct cases and handling

The bill saw support from Liberals, with the Bloc and NDP seeking amendments, while Conservatives expressed skepticism.

Where MPs stood94 MPs · grouped by party · ranked by speaking volume
AI-assisted analysis
CPC38 spoke · 2 support · 24 oppose
James Bezan
James BezanOPPOSES44 speeches · 15,693 words
Criticized the removal of amendments aimed at improving victim support in Bill C-11.Now the Liberals are saying, according to the minister, that they would be open to the unelected Senate bringing forward that amendment... Why is the minister ignoring veterans and survivors of military sexual trauma?
PK
Pat KellyMIXED13 speeches · 5,065 words
Criticized the Liberal government for failing to act on the Deschamps report recommendations for years.Conservatives have always supported, and continue to support, the recommendations contained in the Deschamps report.
Cheryl Gallant
Cheryl GallantOPPOSES14 speeches · 3,995 words
Criticized Bill C-11 for failing to address accountability gaps in the military justice system.Bill C-11 would remove cases from the military justice system while leaving untouched the very accountability gaps that failed Ms. Jaszberenyi in the first place.
Jeff Kibble
Jeff KibbleMIXED11 speeches · 3,753 words
Argued that survivors of military sexual trauma have a fundamental right to choose their justice system, either military or civilian.If Bill C-11 proceeds without the amendments survivors asked for, not only will we undo decades of progress, but we will make things worse than we can imagine.
Pierre Paul-Hus
Pierre Paul-HusMIXED9 speeches · 3,566 words
Argued that the military justice system has flaws but must remain an option for victims.We believe that changes are needed regarding sexual misconduct. However, once again, the Liberal government has missed an opportunity.
AR
Alex RuffOPPOSES13 speeches · 3,376 words
Criticized the bill for not adequately providing justice for victims of sexual misconduct within the military justice system.If all the amendments that were done, in some cases with all-party consensus, get removed and Bill C-11 passes in its current form, the challenge we are going to have is that the victims are not going to get justice.
Scott Anderson
Scott AndersonMIXED10 speeches · 3,041 words
Supported the intentions of the bill to make the military justice system fairer and protect victims.I support the goals of Bill C-11. I support protecting victims. I support making justice fair and seen to be fair. However, we must think carefully about the real-world impacts of these changes.
FT
Fraser TolmieOPPOSES9 speeches · 2,896 words
Argued that the bill perpetuates a burdensome claims process for survivors of military sexual trauma, forcing them to recount their experiences multiple times.Sadly, the current bill would not fix them. First, I will say clearly to anyone watching that the Liberals are not serious about this issue.
Cathay Wagantall
Cathay WagantallOPPOSES9 speeches · 2,155 words
Criticized the bill for removing options for survivors of military sexual trauma by shifting cases to civilian courts.Under this bill, for Criminal Code sexual offences committed in Canada, survivors are given none. Everything has to go directly to civilian police and civilian courts, regardless of what the survivor needs, prefers or feels safe with.
Blake Richards
Blake RichardsOPPOSES5 speeches · 1,944 words
Criticized the Liberals for disregarding the concerns of women veterans.What the Liberals are doing with Bill C-11 follows what I would call a really troubling pattern of behaviour toward veterans in Canada...
Tako Van Popta
Tako Van PoptaMIXED8 speeches · 1,869 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is a step in the right direction for addressing serious issues of sexual misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces.It is a step in the right direction... but it is a shame they have just not yet all been implemented.
Grant Jackson
Grant JacksonMIXED6 speeches · 1,825 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is overdue and addresses critical issues in the Canadian Armed Forces regarding crimes and victim support.It is time to deliver a system that works better for victims and does not protect the bad actors in our system.
Shelby Kramp-Neuman
Shelby Kramp-NeumanOPPOSES2 speeches · 1,816 words
Criticized the bill for denying survivors choice and forcing them into inadequate civilian systems.How is denying survivors choice and forcing them into an overburdened civilian system that does not understand the realities of military service compatible with the minister's promise of a transparent, well-run system that they can trust?
Frank Caputo
Frank CaputoOPPOSES4 speeches · 1,648 words
Criticized the Liberal government's failure to legislate effectively on sexual offences, particularly in the military.We should all be ashamed. We as Conservatives have faced push-back because we want mandatory minimums for an offence for which the victim is serving a psychological life sentence.
Tamara Kronis
Tamara KronisMIXED5 speeches · 1,639 words
Highlighted the need for meaningful reform in the military justice system to address sexual misconduct."Canadians are tired of waiting for the Liberals. They use lots of nice words, but it is time to act and it is time to move forward on so many files, including this one."
Stephanie Kusie
Stephanie KusieOPPOSES4 speeches · 1,566 words
Criticized the Liberal government's failure to act on multiple reports addressing sexual misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces.The government has failed our Canadian Armed Forces and the men and women who serve.
Ziad Aboultaif
Ziad AboultaifMIXED5 speeches · 1,559 words
Criticized the government's past handling of sexual misconduct in the military and expressed distrust in achieving real change.If moving jurisdiction for sexual assault away from military authorities to civilian ones results in an improvement in the way justice is administered in Canada, then, it would seem to me, this bill is worth supporting.
Kurt Holman
Kurt HolmanMIXED4 speeches · 1,551 words
Highlighted support for the bill's goals but raised concerns about its current form.There is no question that Conservatives support the goal of this legislation, but we need to take a responsible approach for this important legislation.
Michael Cooper
Michael CooperMIXED5 speeches · 1,368 words
Argued that the bill addresses sexual misconduct in the military but questions if it's part of broader reform.Conservatives stand with victims first and foremost, and it is on that basis that we will be supporting the legislation at second reading.
Helena Konanz
Helena KonanzSUPPORTS4 speeches · 1,306 words
Argued that Bill C-11 introduces necessary reforms to address longstanding issues of sexual misconduct in the military.Let us be clear. This legislation is not a gift and it is not charity, but the bare minimum of what we owe to those who serve.
Gérard Deltell
Gérard DeltellOPPOSES3 speeches · 1,124 words
Criticized the government's handling of sexual misconduct in the military as inadequate.For five years, the government was asleep at the wheel.
Marc Dalton
Marc DaltonOPPOSES2 speeches · 1,094 words
Argued that the Liberal government's failures have left victims of sexual misconduct without justice.Bill C-11 may be a step forward, but it is long overdue and still incomplete.
Melissa Lantsman
Melissa LantsmanSUPPORTS1 speech · 941 words
Argued that the bill addresses serious issues of misconduct and justice for victims in the Canadian Armed Forces.The legislation before us tries to address one of the most serious and sensitive issues facing our country: delivering justice for victims of misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Garnett Genuis
Garnett GenuisOPPOSES4 speeches · 650 words
Criticized the government's approach to military justice as being disconnected from rising violent crime rates.Victims cannot wait any longer. I wonder if the member would like to reflect on the results of that vote today and what message the Liberals' opposition to our constructive proposal sends to victims of crime.
Todd Doherty
Todd DohertyOPPOSES6 speeches · 600 words
Criticized the government's handling of military sexual trauma cases and the lack of protection for victims.How, for 10 years, have they allowed this injustice for the victims of sexual assault to go on?
Rhonda Kirkland
Rhonda KirklandOPPOSES3 speeches · 291 words
Argued that the bill would remove choice for victims in how justice is pursued.I would suggest that this bill would also remove choice for those folks who want choice in how justice is continued for their case.
Ted Falk
Ted FalkOPPOSES2 speeches · 272 words
Criticized the government's use of time allocation and closure motions, arguing they hinder proper debate.Has the minister personally met with any of the victims or survivors of sexual abuse in the military?
Terry Dowdall
Terry DowdallOPPOSES2 speeches · 270 words
Highlighted concerns about the potential appropriation of land affecting food security due to military needs.For 10 years, it has been the same thing over and over, with lots of promises and absolutely no delivery.
Larry Brock
Larry BrockOPPOSES2 speeches · 236 words
Criticized the lack of trust sex assault victims have in the legal system.The reality is that sex assault victims, whether they be in civilian court or military court, have a complete lack of trust in the system.
HG
Harb GillOPPOSES3 speeches · 212 words
Criticized the potential burden on the civilian justice system from shifting military offences.By shifting more offences to the civilian system, which is already overburdened as it is, how will the government maintain the swift discipline and operational effectiveness necessary to military service?
Jeremy Patzer
Jeremy PatzerMIXED2 speeches · 192 words
Questioned the bill's potential to create a two-tier justice system for offenses committed both in Canada and overseas.I would hate for somebody to run up against a situation where they are not able to get to the end of a sentencing or a trial within a given time frame...
Connie Cody
Connie CodyOPPOSES2 speeches · 192 words
Argued that the government is silencing veterans' voices and closing debate.Why is the government shutting down their voices and closing debate with its manufactured majority?
Chris Warkentin
Chris WarkentinMIXED9 speeches · 183 words
Indicated that Conservatives agreed to apply the vote and voted both in favor and against in different instances.Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives agree to apply the vote, with Conservatives voting against.
LG
Laila GoodridgeOPPOSES1 speech · 169 words
Criticized the government for rushing the legislation and curtailing debate.The Liberals are choosing to put political expediency ahead of the needs of victims and our veterans or even listening to our military members.
John Brassard
John BrassardOPPOSES1 speech · 133 words
Argued that the Liberal government is continuing to decline democracy.Mr. Speaker, this is another truly sad day for our democracy and our democratic institutions.
Michael Barrett
Michael BarrettOPPOSES1 speech · 110 words
Criticized the government's failure to address deep issues within the culture of the Canadian Armed Forces.the Liberals have been in government for 10 years, and they have failed to prioritize and to take the proper action needed to redress the very deep issues within the culture of the Canadian Armed Forces
Roman Baber
Roman BaberOPPOSES1 speech · 98 words
Criticized the Liberal government's failure on justice system reforms.We have a crisis on the streets of Toronto. The government is not willing to get serious about the crime and chaos on our streets.
Dave Epp
Dave EppOPPOSES1 speech · 82 words
Criticized the Prime Minister for not delivering on promises regarding major projects.Is that what the Prime Minister meant by moving at speeds unseen in generations, ignoring the will of this House through the committee network?
LPC34 spoke · 27 support · 0 oppose
Kevin Lamoureux
Kevin LamoureuxSUPPORTS62 speeches · 11,489 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is essential to implement Justice Arbour's recommendations for civilian oversight of military sexual offences.The essence of this bill deals with one specific recommendation that is based on literally hundreds if not, indirectly, thousands of individuals, CAF members and others.
Sherry Romanado
Sherry RomanadoSUPPORTS24 speeches · 6,427 words
Argued that Bill C-11 strengthens the military justice system to provide better safety and support for Canadian Armed Forces members.Through Bill C-11, we are proposing important amendments to the National Defence Act to modernize the military justice system.
David McGuinty
David McGuintySUPPORTS24 speeches · 4,714 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is essential to implement Justice Arbour's recommendations for improving the military justice system.We are going to be rebuilding, rearming and reinvesting in the Canadian Armed Forces... It is about trust for the women and men in our armed forces today, for them to know that when it comes to Criminal Code sexual offences, they will be prosecuted and investigated on the outside...
Chris Malette
Chris MaletteSUPPORTS10 speeches · 2,931 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is essential for creating a safe work environment in the Canadian Armed Forces.Bill C-11 is an important piece of legislation that does just that. It advances the culture of respect and accountability across all ranks of the defence team, regardless of role, position or rank.
Maninder Sidhu
Maninder SidhuNEUTRAL3 speeches · 2,187 words
Moved amendments to clarify legal processes regarding military prosecutions.Bill C-11, in Clause 7, be amended by (a) replacing lines 7 to 12 on page 3 with the following: 7 Section 70 of the Act is amended by striking...
Marilyn Gladu
Marilyn GladuMIXED9 speeches · 2,179 words
Highlighted concerns about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in handling sexual misconduct cases, indicating that moving cases there may not provide justice.We cannot move things from the military justice system to the criminal justice system unless the criminal justice system is fixed so that women and men who are sexually assaulted in Canada get justice.
Julie Dzerowicz
Julie DzerowiczSUPPORTS5 speeches · 1,814 words
Argued that Bill C-11 addresses long-standing concerns of victims and survivors within the Canadian Armed Forces.It is important for everyone to pass it.
Greg Fergus
Greg FergusSUPPORTS9 speeches · 1,813 words
Argued that Bill C-11 modernizes the military justice system and addresses concerns of victims and survivors in the Canadian Armed Forces.Bill C‑11 offers an opportunity to take these particular issues out of the military justice system and into the civilian courts.
CN
Chi NguyenSUPPORTS6 speeches · 1,776 words
Argued for the modernization of the Canadian military justice system to reflect justice and dignity.Bill C-11 is an important step in renewing the Canadian Armed Forces and ensuring that our military institutions reflect the values of justice and dignity that Canadians and CAF members both expect and deserve.
Lisa Hepfner
Lisa HepfnerSUPPORTS4 speeches · 1,685 words
Argued that Bill C-66 is crucial for improving the culture at the Canadian Armed Forces and Department of National Defence.Bill C-66 is a step toward ensuring the goal that all CAF members are respected and safe while they serve.
TW
Tim WatchornSUPPORTS8 speeches · 1,636 words
Argued that most victims prefer the civilian justice system for sexual offences, highlighting a lack of trust in the military system.That is why the defence team implemented most of Justice Arbour's recommendations, and we need to do the same for recommendation 5.
Viviane Lapointe
Viviane LapointeSUPPORTS6 speeches · 1,619 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is essential for the modernization of the military justice system.This bill really has two objectives: to propose a series of targeted changes to modernize the justice system and to strengthen support for victims and survivors.
Lori Idlout
Lori IdloutMIXED8 speeches · 1,595 words
Argued that current provisions in Bill C-11 do not adequately address the needs of reservists and those involved in cadets or international deployments.We have heard that survivors say that the bill was not thought through well enough, especially for survivors.
KT
Kristina Tesser DerksenSUPPORTS4 speeches · 1,582 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is critical for the long-term success of the Canadian Armed Forces by modernizing the military justice system.Bill C-11 proposes to solidify this interim directive and make it permanent, just as Justice Arbour recommended.
Marie-France Lalonde
Marie-France LalondeSUPPORTS3 speeches · 1,553 words
Argued that the bill is important for modernizing the military justice system.This legislation is designed to implement nine recommendations from Justice Arbour's and Justice Fish's reports.
Doug Eyolfson
Doug EyolfsonSUPPORTS6 speeches · 1,508 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is a crucial step toward modernizing the military justice system and restoring trust in the Canadian Armed Forces.Bill C-11 , the military justice system modernization act, is a critical step toward lasting institutional reform, as well as toward strengthening trust and confidence in our military justice system.
Jill McKnight
Jill McKnightSUPPORTS4 speeches · 1,470 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is a significant step forward in addressing military sexual trauma (MST) and improving the military justice system.By passing Bill C-11, we would take an essential step toward addressing military sexual trauma with the urgency, care and compassion it merits.
Iqra Khalid
Iqra KhalidSUPPORTS4 speeches · 1,392 words
Argued that Bill C-11 provides clarity for handling sexual misconduct cases within the Canadian Armed Forces by ensuring they are prosecuted in the civilian system.Bill C-11 is very important and there has been a lot of progress made within the Canadian Armed Forces, but there is a lot more that should be done to continue to support victims of violence and misconduct.
Ron McKinnon
Ron McKinnonSUPPORTS6 speeches · 1,267 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is a critical step towards modernizing the military justice system.Bill C-11, the military justice system modernization act, would play a critical role in helping us address several important recommendations regarding sexual misconduct and would enhance trust in the military justice system.
CS
Charles SousaSUPPORTS6 speeches · 1,238 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is crucial for modernizing the military justice system.Bill C-11 represents an important step forward for the Canadian Armed Forces, and it is only the beginning.
Jessica Fancy
Jessica FancySUPPORTS4 speeches · 1,228 words
Argued that Bill C-11 strengthens the National Defence Act and prioritizes the rights and dignity of survivors of sexual misconduct.Bill C-11 is about restoring confidence that victims will be heard, that justice will be fair and that no one is above the law.
Sukh Dhaliwal
Sukh DhaliwalSUPPORTS5 speeches · 1,183 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is crucial for creating a safe and respectful environment within the Canadian Armed Forces.This bill is about fairness, about restoring trust and, most importantly, about sending a message to every member of the Canadian Armed Forces, especially every survivor of misconduct.
TA
Tatiana AugusteSUPPORTS5 speeches · 1,152 words
Argued that Bill C-11 responds to recommendations aimed at improving the military justice system.Bill C-11 is an historic piece of legislation that recognizes and responds to the unique needs of survivors of military sexual trauma.
LV
Louis VilleneuveSUPPORTS1 speech · 878 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is a critical step towards institutional reform fostering respect and accountability in the military.Bill C-11 is a critical step toward achieving lasting institutional reform that will foster a culture of respect and accountability and strengthen confidence in the military justice system.
Bardish Chagger
Bardish ChaggerSUPPORTS4 speeches · 517 words
Argued that the bill should proceed quickly to committee for proper scrutiny.I would like to hear from the member how quickly he believes it could progress so we could get to scrutinizing it and making sure we get it right at committee.
Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Ginette Petitpas TaylorSUPPORTS3 speeches · 345 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is an important step forward for victims' access to justice.I have a simple question: Does the member not agree that Bill C-11 is an important step forward if we want to make sure that victims have access to justice?
MG
Mark GerretsenNEUTRAL8 speeches · 304 words
Introduced votes on the bill, indicating a procedural role rather than a stance on the bill itself.Mr. Speaker, I believe if you seek it, you will find consent to apply the results from the previous vote to this vote, with Liberal members voting yes.
Steven MacKinnon
Steven MacKinnonNEUTRAL1 speech · 143 words
Moved a procedural motion regarding the time allotted for consideration of Bill C-11.That in relation to Bill C-11, An Act to amend the National Defence Act and other Acts, not more than one further sitting day shall be allotted to the consideration of the report stage...
SA
Sima AcanNEUTRAL2 speeches · 141 words
Asked for collaboration to pass the bill effectively.Given the importance of moving forward with the amended bill, especially improvements that could be done at the committee stage, do you believe we can work together to pass the bill and protect the victims?
RV
Rechie ValdezSUPPORTS1 speech · 130 words
Expressed gratitude for the legislation and its importance.I want to give a shout-out to all of our veterans and those who have served and who continue to serve our country.
GD
Guillaume Deschênes-ThériaultSUPPORTS1 speech · 126 words
Argued that Bill C-11 is essential for the protection of members of the Canadian Armed Forces.Bill C‑11 is essential. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces always show up to protect Canadians and their safety.
JD
John-Paul DankoNEUTRAL1 speech · 120 words
Mentioned discussions with recruits and veterans, reflecting on their pride and service.I spoke with the commander who talked about the increase in recruiting and interest in serving in Canada's military...
Anju Dhillon
Anju DhillonSUPPORTS1 speech · 117 words
Thanked a colleague for their hard work on the bill and acknowledged their efforts.I believe this is an important step for justice and for people who want to work in the armed forces.
ÉB
Élisabeth BrièreSUPPORTS1 speech · 85 words
Acknowledged the implementation of recommendations from Madam Arbour's report.Obviously, more women are joining today and that is a good thing.
BQ17 spoke · 6 support · 8 oppose
Simon-Pierre Savard-Tremblay
Simon-Pierre Savard-TremblayMIXED20 speeches · 6,002 words
Supported the bill's progression to committee for detailed study while emphasizing the need for scrutiny.The Bloc Québécois will be supporting the bill at this stage so that it can be studied in committee.
Christine Normandin
Christine NormandinSUPPORTS7 speeches · 3,603 words
Supported the principle of the bill and intends to vote in favor at second reading.I too will put an end to the suspense by announcing that the Bloc Québécois intends to vote in favour of the principle of the bill at second reading so that it can be sent to committee.
Yves Perron
Yves PerronSUPPORTS16 speeches · 2,431 words
Argued that the Bloc Québécois supports Bill C-11 for victim’s rights and safety in the military justice system.The Bloc Québécois supports Bill C‑11. We always have and always will, because it is important to look after victims and it is also important to make the Canadian Armed Forces a safe place to work.
Rhéal Éloi Fortin
Rhéal Éloi FortinSUPPORTS6 speeches · 1,854 words
Argued that Bill C-11 offers a long-awaited opportunity to improve the military justice system.We in the Bloc Québécois believe that it is time to take action. We intend to support this bill and hope that it comes into force quickly so that we can have a military justice system that reflects Quebec and Canadian society.
Claude DeBellefeuille
Claude DeBellefeuilleMIXED5 speeches · 1,812 words
Supported Bill C-11 for addressing sexual misconduct in the military and aligning with recommendations from the Arbour report.The government rejected them. I do not know how the member can face any of those victims, who must be disappointed today.
PB
Patrick BoninOPPOSES10 speeches · 993 words
Criticized the government's removal of important amendments proposed by the Standing Committee on National Defence.The government is being rather arrogant, and I think we need to call it out.
Jean-Denis Garon
Jean-Denis GaronOPPOSES6 speeches · 739 words
Criticized the government's use of its majority to override democratic processes.It is now 2026... we are still talking about this crisis in Canada's military justice system.
Marie-Hélène Gaudreau
Marie-Hélène GaudreauSUPPORTS7 speeches · 583 words
Argued for changes in committee to ensure impartiality in rulings.This issue should have been resolved decades ago.
Gabriel Ste-Marie
Gabriel Ste-MarieSUPPORTS5 speeches · 540 words
Argued that the government took too long to introduce the bill, highlighting prior delays since the Deschamps report.We support the bill in principle, although it should have been implemented and passed a long time ago.
Mario Beaulieu
Mario BeaulieuOPPOSES4 speeches · 427 words
Criticized the Conservatives for appointing Mr. Vance despite existing allegations of sexual misconduct.Should we not find ways to ensure that the process is not completely controlled by those with political power?
SL
Sébastien LemireMIXED4 speeches · 410 words
Argued for faster action and resources for victims, particularly in remote regions.This bill is essentially about justice for victims of the military and its lack of transparency.
Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe
Alexis Brunelle-DuceppeOPPOSES3 speeches · 321 words
Criticized the government for ignoring the work of parliamentary committees and experts related to the bill.Now we are learning that the government is completely ignoring all the work that was done.
Xavier Barsalou-Duval
Xavier Barsalou-DuvalOPPOSES2 speeches · 275 words
Criticized the government's dismissal of committee work on the bill.the government says it wants to collaborate, but it just dismisses the committee's constructive work once the bill comes back to the House.
MS
Mario SimardOPPOSES2 speeches · 199 words
Argued that the government, due to its majority, is ignoring the input from opposition parties.they sometimes forget that democracy is not about saying, “I won, so shut up”.
Maxime Blanchette-Joncas
Maxime Blanchette-JoncasOPPOSES2 speeches · 184 words
Argued that the Liberal government is showing a lack of leadership regarding military justice reform.Bill C-11 is a concrete example of the Liberal government's lack of leadership.
Luc Thériault
Luc ThériaultSUPPORTS2 speeches · 141 words
Argued that it is scandalous that it took over a decade to draft legislation to address the culture of silence in the Canadian Armed Forces.To reassure my colleague, I want him to know that the Bloc Québécois supports the bill and will work in committee.
Andréanne Larouche
Andréanne LaroucheOPPOSES1 speech · 138 words
Criticized the lack of political will to change the culture within the armed forces.Does my colleague agree that the real lack of political will to change the culture within the armed forces is why we are still talking about this today, in 2024?
Legislative stages
  1. First reading (House of Commons)
    Sep 26, 2025
  2. Second reading (House of Commons)
    Oct 9, 2025
  3. Third reading (House of Commons)
    May 25, 2026
  4. First reading (Senate)
    May 26, 2026
  5. Second reading (Senate)
    May 28, 2026
  6. Third reading (Senate)
    Jun 11, 2026
  7. Royal Assent
    Jun 18, 2026