Ontario is preparing legislation that would require people granted bail to pay a cash security deposit up front.
Solicitor General Michael Kerzner spoke about the move yesterday during a press conference, saying the province believes the rule of law matters and a safe Ontario is a strong Ontario.
Civil liberties advocates warn the proposal would create a two-tier system that keeps low-income people in jail even if they pose no risk.
Ontario’s Associate Solicitor General Zee Hamid argued the measure would strengthen public safety and ensure bail conditions are taken seriously.
The government says judicial discretion remains unchanged and that deposits would be returned at the end of each case.
