The federal government has announced it’s introducing legislation to make bail more difficult to secure, along with lengthening sentences for certain offences.

These actions are intended to make Canadians feel safer, which makes sense politically. But does it make sense practically?

Invoking the term “bail reform” has been politically strategic for politicians at both provincial and federal levels.

As I explain to my criminology students, “tough on crime” rhetoric has long been useful for garnering political support, while more nuanced examinations of the realities of crime and what could and should be done to reduce it struggle to gain traction.

The federal government’s new bail reform legislation would ensure that more people are incarcerated and for longer periods of time. As someone who lost a close relative to the prison system while he was awaiting a court appearance, I know how problematic this approach will be.

There’s also been no mention of corresponding investments in federal and provincial corrections systems that would enable them to keep up with this looming increase in prison populations.

In a news release, the federal government said:

“[The proposed changes] will only be effective if provincial and territorial governments do their part in supporting their implementation.........

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