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Every day, more than 100,000 flights take off and land safely around the world—events that rarely make headlines. In much the same way, moments of unity in Parliament often go unnoticed amid the usual adversarial debates that dominate the news.

Last week was one of those rare, unifying moments. Parliament voted unanimously in favor of Private Member’s Bill C 225, known as Bailey’s Law—a bill that could fundamentally change how Canada addresses intimate partner violence.

Currently, the Criminal Code treats all assaults the same, whether it’s a bar fight or violence against a spouse. Bailey’s Law recognizes that intimate partner violence is not just another assault—it is a deeply personal crime with devastating consequences. Under this bill, killing an intimate partner would automatically be treated as first-degree murder, sending a clear message that these acts will face the harshest penalties.

This change is urgently needed. In 2023 alone, more than 120,000 Canadians were victims of intimate partner violence—most of them women. Behind each number is a story of fear, trauma, and, in some cases, tragedy like the brutal murder of Bailey McCourt in Kelowna earlier this year.

When Bailey’s Law came to a vote at second reading, every MP supported it. Bailey’s family was present in the gallery, and when the result was announced, all MPs rose in a standing ovation—a moment that transcended politics and honored both their immense loss and their fight for justice. It was one of the most heartwarming events I have witnessed in my time in the House of Commons.

However, second reading is only the beginning. The bill now moves to committee for detailed review, then returns for third reading before heading to the Senate. Only after passing these stages will it receive Royal Assent and become law—a process that can be interrupted by prorogation or an election, which is why so few Private Members’ Bills succeed.

As the elected MP for Okanagan Lake West–South Kelowna, I will continue to strongly support Bailey’s Law at every opportunity. We must send a clear message that intimate partner violence will no longer be tolerated in Canada.

My question this week: Have you, or someone you know, experienced intimate partner violence?

You can share with me your perspective on the always spirited discussion on my Facebook Page. Alternatively, I can be reached at [email protected] or toll-free at 1-800-665-8711.

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Dan Albas is the Member of Parliament for the riding of Okanagan Lake West - South Kelowna, Shadow Minister for Transport and the Vice Chair of the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, Dan's riding includes the communities of Kelowna (Mission, South Kelowna & East Kelowna within specific boundaries), West Kelowna, Peachland, Summerland.
You can reach Dan by calling 1-800-665-8711, emailing [email protected] or please visit: DanAlbasMP.ca
Our mailing address is:
Dan Albas MP
101-3731 Old Okanagan Hwy
West Kelowna, British Columbia V4T 0G7
Canada

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