Political leaders in Manitoba are cautiously optimistic bail reform will keep more dangerous offenders off the streets while some on the front-lines of the justice system aren’t convinced.

The Liberal government tabled legislation Thursday morning to enact sweeping changes to Canada’s Criminal Code that would make it harder for certain offenders to get bail. Tougher sentences for violent and repeat offenders are also proposed.

It move comes as concerns over crime are at the forefront of public and political discourse.

“There was massive political necessity for this,” University of Manitoba associate law professor Brandon Trask said.

“There was less of a legal necessity… but I think it was a good package deal that ended up addressing a lot of concerns that we’ve heard about across the c

See Full Page