Stand on Guard

Conservatives introduce Bill C-270 to protect Canadian homes and families

Ottawa, ON - Today, Sandra Cobena, Conservative Member of Parliament for Newmarket-Aurora, introduced Bill C-270, the Stand on Guard Act.

With violent crime up by 55 per cent, gun crime by 130 per cent and extortion by 330 per cent since 2015, this timely legislation will clarify the legal standards around self-defence during a break-in.

"Too many Canadians have gone through long and costly trials just for defending themselves and their families," said Cobena, who introduced the bill in the House today. "No one should be criminally charged for acting in self-defence".

The bill makes important changes to Section 34 of the Criminal Code so that force is presumed to be justified if used against an illegal intruder. Conservatives first announced the 'Stand on Guard' principle back in August, asking the government to introduce legislation in the fall session.

"We called on the Liberals to deliver results, and promised to act when they didn't," said Melissa Lantsman, Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. "Today, we're working to build a more just Canada - where protecting your loved ones doesn't land you in the dock".

Collingwood resident Cameron Gardiner found himself under arrest in 2019, despite being the victim of a home invasion. He was tried first for murder, and subsequently for manslaughter, before all charges were dropped.

"While they did not take us up on our offer, the government still has a chance to help keep Canadians safe. We call on the Liberals, and all Members of Parliament, to support C-270," Cobena concluded.