Spouses could be compelled to testify under bill that codifies rights of victims

OTTAWA – The government’s long-awaited victims’ rights bill would force people to testify in court against a spouse.

The legislation would change the Canada Evidence Act, which allows spouses to refuse to testify except in certain specific cases such as sexual assaults or crimes against youngsters.

The changes are part of a sweeping government bill that codifies the rights of victims, makes it easier for vulnerable witnesses to testify and requires that victims be given more information about cases.

Bill C-32, the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights, says victims have a right to be told when a criminal is deported or paroled and what parole restrictions may apply.

They will also have the right to have the courts consider making a restitution order in all cases and to have such orders registered as a civil court judgment against the offender if the money isn’t paid.