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June 3rd, 2014

NDP bill aims to protect infrastructure from theft

Bill will ensure clear penalties for copper theft

A Private Members’ Bill introduced by NDP Public Safety critic Randall Garrison (Esquimalt – Juan de Fuca) will amend the Criminal Code of Canada to protect critical infrastructure.

The bill will ensure that Canada’s energy and utilities, communications, health care, and other critical sectors remain protected, with clear legal penalties for those caught stealing copper wire or copper pipes.

“Copper theft results in millions of dollars of losses every year – costs that are passed on to Canadians,” said Garrison. “This bill will ensure the safety of workers across Canada’s critical infrastructure sectors and keep our communities secure.”

According to the Canadian Electricity Association, copper theft costs the Canadian electricity sector approximately $40 million annually. These costs are ultimately passed on to Canadian consumers in the form of higher electricity costs. By deterring copper theft, we can save Canadians money and protect our country’s critical assets which help keep our communities safe.