Canadian Business Leaders Urge Bail Reform Amid Urban Safety Concerns

Business associations across Canada call for federal action to address crime, homelessness, and mental health issues affecting downtown areas.

Business leaders from major Canadian cities are in Ottawa advocating for changes to the bail system to curb repeat offenses impacting urban safety.
The International Downtown Association Canada (IDA Canada) emphasizes the need for federal leadership in addressing interconnected issues of crime, addiction, and homelessness.
Recent increases in property and drug offenses, along with shoplifting, have been highlighted as major concerns for downtown businesses.
IDA Canada calls for a systematic review of Bill C-48 to include theft in bail reform, citing its impact on small businesses and public safety.
Representatives stress the importance of collaboration among all levels of government to create safe and inclusive urban environments.