Thanks to Bill C-268, Canada’s Criminal Code now includes minimum sentences for offences involving human trafficking. The legislation, which came into effect this summer, is supported by Brant MP, Phil McColeman, and will provide a minimum sentence of five years imprisonment for anyone convicted of trafficking a minor in Canada and a minimum of six years imprisonment for cases with aggravating factors.

“Human trafficking is a despicable act and the passing of Bill C-268 to amend the criminal code is an important step forward in addressing the problem of child trafficking here in Canada,” said Mr. McColeman. “Traffickers need to know that Canada is not a safe haven for this activity and we will not accept the exploitation and sale of children.”

Introduced to Parliament as a Private Member’s Bill by Joy Smith, Member of Parliament for Kildonan – St. Paul, Bill C-268 has received national support from many organizations, including Canada
Fights Human Trafficking (CFHT), founded by Brantford resident, Naomi Baker.

“This bill tells traffickers that violating human rights will not be tolerated, most certainly when regarding children, Canadian or international,” said Ms. Baker.  “The passing of this bill correctly portrays the true nature of Canadians.”
“I have great respect for the work of Ms. Baker and that of my colleague, Joy Smith,” said Mr. McColeman. “They have worked tirelessly, along with others, to bring this issue to light and to introduce measures to help protect those who are vulnerable.”
According to the Canada Fights Human Trafficking website, human trafficking is a $32 billion annual black market industry and the second largest organized crime world-wide.
 “The economics of trafficking humans is simply supply and demand.  This devastating fact commands attention,” said Ms. Baker.  “As a destination country for the buying and selling of humans, as well as having a huge domestic market for trafficking, Canada Fights Human Trafficking is determined to protect and rescue Canada’s vulnerable citizens.”