The Government of Canada has tabled legislation supported by the IAFF that would strengthen sentencing for those convicted of assaulting fire fighters, paramedics, and other first responders.
Bill C-14, the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, was introduced Oct. 23 and proposes an amendment to the Criminal Code of Canada to classify offences against a first responder as an aggravating circumstance to be considered during sentencing.
The IAFF is welcoming the move, calling it an important step toward addressing a growing number of violent incidents targeting fire fighters and paraemdics across the country.
“Our jobs are dangerous enough without the threat of violence, and we are grateful for any legislative initiative that addresses this growing threat to our members’ health and safety,” General President Edward Kelly said.
Since 2022, the IAFF has lobbied MPs and senators to strengthen protections for on-duty fire fighters and paramedics. Reports of assaults have been particularly high in major urban centres and during medical calls.
In Winnipeg alone, there have been more than 58 reported incidents of violence against fire fighters and paramedics so far in 2025. In one case, a fire fighter was struck in the face with a metal pole while responding to a vehicle fire. Days later, crews had to disarm and restrain an overdose patient who brandished a knife and threatened to kill them.
Our jobs are dangerous enough without the threat of violence, and we are grateful for any legislative initiative that addresses this growing threat to our members’ health and safety.
general president edward kelly
Bill C-14 contains similar provisions to Bill S-233, a private member’s bill introduced on Sept. 23 by Conservative Senator Leo Housakos and supported by Independent Senator Hassan Yussuff. The IAFF supports both bills. Bill S-233 passed three readings in the Senate and awaits First Reading in the House of Commons. It reintroduces Conservative MP Todd Doherty’s Bill C-321, which passed through the House of Commons in 2024 but died earlier this year when parliament was suspended.
“All of these important legislative initiatives addressing the safety of our fire fighters and paramedics are a direct result of the hard work we’ve done at the federal level in Canada,” Kelly added. “We’ll look to continue this momentum in just a few weeks, when we gather on Parliament Hill for our Canadian Legislative Conference.
“We thank Prime Minister Carney, Minister of Justice Fraser and all legislators who are standing up for the safety of our members as they serve communities across the nation.”
The legislation will be a key topic at the 32nd Canadian Legislative Conference taking place Nov. 2-4 in Ottawa. More than 140 affiliate leaders from across Canada will meet with MPs and senators to advocate for the measures and other national priorities, including stronger airport firefighting regulations.
