Oppose Restrictive “Tough on Crime” Parole Reform

Immediate support needed! Join CAEFS in speaking out against recent “tough on crime” calls to reform Canada’s parole system.

The Toronto Police Association and Canadian Police Association are urging the federal government to place parole reform on Parliament’s fall 2026 agenda. 

The police associations’ grievances seem, at a glance, rooted in the period of victim notification, however the scope of changes the police have since asked for are much broader and will significantly impact the lives and liberties of all federally sentenced people. Two of these demands would change the law in ways that make federal sentences more restrictive than they already are. 

This is especially concerning following Bill C-14 and recent bail and sentencing reforms, where narrow public concerns were used to justify much broader legislative changes. 

Canada’s parole system is already highly restrictive, and the resources below outline why further restrictions would undermine evidence-based corrections, reintegration, fairness, and public safety. 

The fall legislative agenda is expected to be shaped this month. We believe that, without swift action, Canada’s parole system faces regressive reform. 

What you can do right now:

1. Read the resources below and learn about the scope of the issue
2. Email your MP. A template letter is attached. Please personalize it where you can and would like to. Consider posting your letter or your concerns with the policy direction on social media.

We know public advocacy can make a difference. Earlier this year, public opposition helped stop the planned phase-out of librarians and library workers in federal prisons. 

Please consider writing to your MP and helping ensure that Canadian laws are shaped by evidence, community knowledge, and the realities of the people most affected by incarceration and release.