Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe emphasized the need for Criminal Code changes that would directly target repeat violent offenders and drug traffickers. “The significant change that will have significant consequences for the people bringing these poisonous drugs into our communities is a change to the Criminal Code of Canada,” Moe said, highlighting the urgency for federal legislative action.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed deep frustration with the current system, arguing that Canadians are fed up with violent criminals being released on bail. Drawing comparisons to the U.S. justice system, Ford said, “We can’t release people the next day after they kick people’s doors in, put guns to people’s heads, terrorize neighbourhoods, terrorize families.” He added that “weak-kneed” judges and lenient bail practices are undermining public safety, and proposed mandatory minimum sentences as a solution.
New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt echoed these concerns and called for more provincial flexibility in how bail and sentencing are handled. “We need to have the flexibility at the provincial level to be tough on the people who are hard on Canadians,” Holt said, arguing for tailored measures that reflect regional realities.
The premiers also took aim at the current federal health-care funding model. They are pressing for increased transfers from Ottawa and more autonomy in shaping health delivery systems suited to their populations. Ford said Ontario needs substantial investment to recruit and train more medical professionals, while Moe and Holt stressed that regional needs vary and the current flat per-capita model does not account for provinces with older or sicker populations, like New Brunswick.
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s proposed bail reforms, introduced during his election campaign, would shift the burden of proof onto repeat offenders to justify receiving bail—especially in cases involving violent crimes, gang activity, or human trafficking. He also promised sentencing reforms to allow consecutive penalties for serious offences.
With consensus forming among the premiers on both justice and health issues, they are urging the federal government to act swiftly. As Holt put it, “Right now, the system does not reflect the actual needs of our communities.”