4 The Criminal Code is amended by adding the following after section 278.97:
Marginal note:Reasons
278.98 (1) In proceedings in respect of an offence under section 151, 152, 153, 153.1 or 155, subsection 160(2) or (3) or section 170, 171, 172, 173, 271, 272 or 273, the judge shall provide reasons for a decision that a person is
(a) acquitted;
(b) found guilty;
(c) discharged, after having been found guilty;
(d) found not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder; or
(e) found unfit to stand trial.
Marginal note:Historical offences
(2) Subsection (1) also applies in proceedings for any offence under this Act, as it read from time to time before the day on which this section comes into force, if the conduct alleged would be an offence referred to in subsection (1) if it occurred on or after that day.
Marginal note:Record of reasons
(3) The reasons shall be entered in the record of the proceedings or, if the proceedings are not recorded, shall be provided in writing.
Marginal note:Proceedings before judge
(4) This section applies only in proceedings before a judge without a jury.