Peel CAS Joins Partners to Highlight New Federal Crime Legislation

On Friday, March 13, representatives from Peel Children's Aid Society joined partners from across the region at a press conference hosted by Peel Regional Police to highlight the introduction of Bill C-22, new federal legislation aimed at strengthening Canada’s ability to investigate serious crime in the digital age.

The event brought together community and government leaders including Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich, Members of Parliament Ruby Sahota, Sonia Sidhu, Iqwinder S. Gaheer, and Sima Acan, as well as local councillors Mario Russo, Martin Reid, Matt Mahoney, and Gurpartap Singh Toor, alongside representatives from Victim Services of Peel and several community agencies.

Modernizing Laws to Address Crime in the Digital Age

Introduced by the federal government on March 12, 2026, Bill C-22 proposes updates to Canada’s Criminal Code and related legislation to better address crime and national security threats that are increasingly organized and facilitated online.

The proposed legislation would provide law enforcement and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service with enhanced tools to investigate serious offences such as child sexual exploitation, human trafficking, extortion, and terrorism. These tools would allow investigators to access basic subscriber information earlier in investigations, respond more quickly in urgent situations, and strengthen cooperation with international partners.

The government has indicated that these measures would bring Canada in line with other Five Eyes countries while maintaining strong Charter protections and judicial oversight.

Supporting the Fight Against Human Trafficking in Peel

For Peel CAS, this work is closely aligned with our organization’s commitment to protecting children and youth from harm. Through nCourage, we work alongside police, community organizations, and system partners to prevent and respond to human sex trafficking, support survivors, and increase awareness across the region.

Human trafficking remains a significant concern for communities across Ontario, and collaboration between law enforcement, social services, and community partners is essential to identifying victims, disrupting trafficking networks, and ensuring survivors receive the support they need.

Strengthening investigative tools and improving collaboration across jurisdictions can play an important role in helping authorities respond more effectively to these complex crimes.

Working Together to Protect Children and Youth

Peel CAS extends its thanks to Peel Regional Police and all community partners for their leadership and advocacy on this critical issue. By working together across sectors, organizations can better protect children, youth, and families in Peel Region and continue the collective effort to end human trafficking.

Together, through collaboration, awareness, and coordinated action, we can continue to strengthen protections for vulnerable children and youth in our community. 

In the Media: 

Officials highlight new tools to help law enforcement, CP24, nCourage & Peel CAS mention, March 13, 2026.

*photos courtesy of Peel Regional Police