Cyberbullying has become a major issue facing too many young Canadians.
Cyberbullying is a form of bullying, in which aggression towards another is carried out electronically. In recent years, cyberbullying involving the widespread distribution of intimate images without the consent of the person depicted has created a whole new dimension to this serious problem.
Once in cyberspace, an image or information often spreads quickly and uncontrollably, and may also become permanently available on the Internet.
We have seen far too many instances where such conduct has victimized a young Canadian before the entire world. It can destroy lives. The impact of cyberbullying is far reaching and has even been a factor in the tragic suicide of several Canadian teenagers. In order to help protect the most vulnerable in society, we need a stronger criminal justice response.
In the 2013 throne speech, our Conservative government committed to better protecting children from all forms of bullying and we are delivering on our commitment with the introduction of legislation that specifically addresses this form of cyberbullying.
Last Wednesday, our government introduced legislation that will amend the Criminal Code to prohibit the non-consensual distribution of intimate images. If approved by Parliament, this crime would be punishable by a maximum penalty of five years.
A judge will be able to order the removal of an intimate image from websites and can impose restrictions for a specific time on the use of the Internet for the person convicted.
This legislation will also modernize existing investigative powers to enable police to more efficiently and effectively obtain electronic evidence that exists on the Internet or other technologies. This legislation is essential in addressing cyberbullying and holding cyberbullies accountable for their actions.
Our government also remains committed to putting the needs of victims first. That is why we are continuing to work with partners in the public and private sectors to address all forms of bullying through education, awareness and prevention activities.
As part of our crime prevention projects, we are supporting the development of school-based projects to prevent bullying. Our government also supports the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, which operates Cybertip.ca and NeedHelpNow.ca, websites that Canadians can use to report online sexual exploitation of children. They provide
important resources for those seeking help.
We are also helping ensure that Canadians have access to information they need to protect themselves and their families against online threats through the GetCyberSafe.gc.ca campaign.
Through this new legislation and our continued efforts to promote education, awareness and prevention, we will help better protect our children from all forms of bullying.
Our Conservative government remains committed to keeping Canada's streets and communities safe for all Canadians, particularly for our children.
