Question Period Note: PREVENTION OF AUTO THEFT

What is the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry doing to prevent auto thefts?

• No Canadian should wake up to discover their means of getting to work, school, or the grocery store has been stolen.
• That is why the Government of Canada amended the Radiocommunication Act to regulate devices and assist in removing unregulated ones from the Canadian marketplace.
• Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada conducted a consultation on combating auto theft through regulatory measures, which concluded in August 2024, and will consider comments received in developing any restrictions with respect to devices used to commit auto theft.
• The government is working with Canadian companies, online retailers and the automotive industry to prevent auto thefts, and will continue to take action and implement new initiatives such as Innovative Solutions Canada’s Vehicle Theft Prevention challenge, launched in August 2024.

On February 8, 2024, the Government of Canada hosted a National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft where the intent to restrict wireless tools used to conduct auto theft was announced.
The same day, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry sent a letter to online retailers encouraging industry to take voluntary measures to restrict the sale of these products in Canada.
Bill C-69, which included relevant amendments to the Radiocommunication Act, received royal assent on June 20. This follows through on the government’s intention to regulate the sale, possession, distribution, and import of devices used to steal cars.
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada conducted a consultation on combating auto theft through regulatory measures which concluded in August 2024. The Department will consider the comments received in developing any restrictions the Government may establish with respect to devices used to commit auto theft.

• In advance of regulatory action, retailers are encouraged to voluntarily take immediate steps to restrict the sale of wireless devices used during car thefts in Canada.
• The Government of Canada remains committed to ensuring that legitimate uses for these devices will be maintained in order to support innovation and public safety uses.