Free Speech

I strongly oppose any restrictions on legitimate freedom of speech. Free speech, freedom of expression, and a free press are fundamental principles of Canadian law and democracy. The right to free speech is crucial, and I stand against censorship of non-criminal material simply because some may find it offensive. Canada already has laws in place to protect against hate speech, incitement to violence, and sexually abusive content.

The Liberals attempted to pass the Online Harms Act, which would have severely undermined free speech in Canada. This bill proposed creating a Digital Safety Commission with sweeping powers to control what Canadians can say and see online. The government could even access personal data without a warrant—an alarming violation of our rights. It also introduced “peace bonds” to punish individuals based on suspicion of future hate speech, threatening the integrity of our justice system.

Additionally, the bill sought to revive Section 13 of the Canadian Human Rights Act, which had been removed a decade ago due to concerns that it suppressed free speech. This provision would have allowed individuals to be summoned before a tribunal without the criminal safeguards essential to protecting our rights, undermining open debate.

You deserve a Member of Parliament who will protect the fundamental right to free speech. Democracy flourishes when people can express their views without fear of government overreach. I will fight to ensure that this vital freedom is preserved.