This bill amends the Criminal Code (R.S.C. 1985, c. C-46) in relation to human trafficking, victim testimony and the procedure applicable to specified sexual offences. The measures concern accused and convicted persons, victims and witnesses, and the judges, justices and parties involved in criminal proceedings.

For offences under sections 279.01 to 279.03 of the Criminal Code, the bill adds a maximum fine of $100,000, in addition to any other applicable punishment. The fine would apply, among other offences, to trafficking in persons, trafficking of a person under 18 years of age, specified offences involving a material benefit from trafficking, and withholding or destroying documents. The minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment set out for certain of these offences remain in the amended provisions. The bill also specifies that exploitation may be established where a person causes another person, by any form of coercion, to provide or offer to provide labour or a service. It requires sentences imposed for offences under sections 279.01 to 279.03 to be served consecutively to specified other sentences.

For the purpose of establishing whether a person committed an offence relating to trafficking in persons, the bill removes the requirement that the victim demonstrate a reasonable apprehension of fear. It also clarifies that an order permitting a witness to testify outside the courtroom may provide for testimony at a location in a different building.

The bill prohibits preliminary inquiries for a list of offences, including sexual offences, sexual assault, trafficking in persons, material benefit from sexual services and procuring. Finally, in proceedings involving a sexual offence where testifying could endanger the victim’s physical or mental health, it makes a video recording admissible—subject to the proper administration of justice and the victim adopting its contents in testimony—if it was made within a reasonable time after the alleged offence and shows the victim describing the acts complained of. The presiding judge or justice may prohibit any other use of the recording.