Online Sexual Violence Motion Unanimously Adopted

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ottawa, ON — Yesterday, Motion M-47, introduced by Arnold Viersen, MP for Peace River – Westlock, was unanimously adopted by House of Commons, the fifth motion to be adopted in the 42nd Parliament.

Since being introduced on March 8, 2016, M-47 has garnered the support of over 50 organizations representing a broad coalition of child advocacy agencies, women’s support centres, and victims’ rights organizations. M-47 has also been jointly seconded by MPs from the Conservative, Liberal, NDP, Bloc and Green parties.

“I am grateful for the bipartisanship on this issue and unanimous adoption of M-47,” said MP Viersen. “Parliament is tackling a complex but necessary issue, and we must work together to ensure young boys and girls grow up and develop positive attitudes on sexuality which foster dignity instead of objectification and affection instead of coercion.”

Throughout the debate, MPs highlighted that easily accessible violent and degrading explicit material is destroying the spirit of boys and limiting their chances for meaningful relationships, teaching girls to expect and endure violent and degrading sexual behaviour, and harming the physical and mental health of individuals, especially adolescents.

“I am also encouraged that Motion M-47 has increased awareness about the public health impact of sexual violence online from coast to coast to coast.” said MP Viersen. “In fact, inspired by Motion M-47, the Alberta School Boards Association has voted 85% in favour of integrating education on the harmful impact of pornography into provincial curriculum, Manitoba MLA James Teitsma made a statement in the Manitoba Legislature on sexual violence online, and municipalities in British Columbia have formally expressed support for the study.”

With the adoption of Motion M-47, the Health Committee will be tasked with undertaking a study and reporting to Parliament with recommendations by July 2017.

“I look forward to working with stakeholders, parents, and my colleagues on the Health Committee to find solutions that foster the healthy development of youth, increases child protection, and reduces violence,” says MP Viersen.

For more information on M-47, please see the briefing kit located under the M-47 tab on this website.

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