Local unions representing firefighters and paramedics are welcoming the bail reform that was announced on Monday, saying Bill C-14 will strengthen penalties for assaulting first responders.
This comes as emergency service members are seeing increased violence on the job.
“It’s a huge win for firefighters, paramedics and first responders across the country to better recognize and prevent violence against those who are helping others,” said Nick Kasper, the president of United Firefighters of Winnipeg.
The legislation received royal assent on June 15 and comes into force in 30 days.
“When our members are tasked with treating someone who is a little bit volatile, I guess there is a need for more supports,” said Kyle Ross, the president of MGEU.
Bail reform is something local officials, unions and businesses called and advocated for. Bill C-14 — the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act — requires judges to consider a victim’s status as an on-duty firefighter, paramedic, police officer or other first responder as an aggravating factor during sentencing.
While unions welcome the change, they say they were anticipating it earlier.
“Unfortunately, that is kind of a reactive approach. It’s increasing penalties for paramedics, when we want to prevent injury in the first place,” said Ross.
Both unions say their members share that they encounter a lot more violence. A survey from MGEU conducted in 2025 among Winnipeg paramedics showed 93 per cent have been exposed to violence on the job.
In July 2025, a Winnipeg firefighter was struck in the face by a metal pole while responding to a vehicle fire.
Just days later, Winnipeg firefighters had to disarm and restrain an overdose patient who allegedly brandished a knife and threatened to kill them.
“Those types of calls are highly unpredictable. People are highly intoxicated on a substance and exhibit unpredictable behaviour,” explained Kasper.
At the same time, statistics released by Winnipeg police show that in 2025, approximately one in six violent crimes cleared by charge involved an accused violating their bail, probation, or other similar court order.
“Unfortunately, the reality is these types of interactions are being normalized,” said Kasper.
Despite escalating violence, both unions are hopeful Bill C-14 will make an impact.
A fire engine races to the scene of an emergency. (PHOTO: iStock’s Matt Gush) MattGush
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