MP WARNS NEW HATE CRIMES BILL WOULD THREATEN RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

OTTAWA, September 20, 2002 (LSN.ca) – Canadian Alliance family critic Vic Toews says he is encouraged by the tremendous community response to Bill C-415. The bill, sponsored by NDP MP Svend Robinson proposes to amend the hate propaganda sections of the Criminal Code to further expand special protections for homosexual activities.  “My riding and Ottawa offices have both been overwhelmed by phone calls, faxes, letters, and e-mails from constituents who are opposed to this bill,” said Toews.  “People have indicated to me that they have serious concerns about the far-reaching social and legal implications of the legislation.”  Toews agreed that Mr. Robinson’s amendment could have serious implications on freedom of religion and expression. He noted that the effect of this amendment to the Criminal Code would further criminalize statements critical of homosexual activity and would limit the ability of religious leaders and institutions to communicate essential matters of faith.  Toews noted that all political parties except for the Canadian Alliance have spoken in favour of the bill.  “While continuing to oppose Bill C-415, I will also work to ensure that if the other political parties maintain their support for Mr. Robinson’s bill, appropriate defences are put into place so that individual Canadians as well as religious groups are protected in their ability to freely express their opinions and religious convictions on this issue in accordance with their own beliefs,” said Toews.  “I would encourage concerned citizens write to both the Prime Minister, Jean Chretien, and the federal Justice Minister, Martin Cauchon, to express their views on Bill C-415.”  Campaign Life Coalition also recommends that concerned citizens contact their own MP’s to voice their opposition to the bill.  The Honourable Martin Cauchon   Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada   314 West Block   Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6   Telephone: (613) 995-7691 Fax: 613-995-0114 E-mail: [email protected]   The Right Honourable Jean Chretien   Prime Minister of Canada   309-S Centre Block   Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6   Telephone: (613) 992-4211 Fax: (613) 941-6900 E-mail: [email protected]