To start with, I will read the amendment: “Nothing in this section is to be interpreted or applied so as to interfere with the freedom of expression or the freedom of religion.” We all know that freedom of religion and freedom of expression cannot be attacked. Canadians must remain free to worship, teach and share scripture without fear of charges. Sacred texts are foundational to our cultural identity. Criminalizing them is unacceptable.
What my colleague has mentioned is that it seems there is a political deal. A report confirmed that the Liberal government struck a deal with the Bloc Québécois to secure support for Bill C-9 by removing this safeguard. As real-world consequences, pastors, imams or priests could face charges for teaching traditional doctrine.
This amendment goes to the very heart of what Parliament is supposed to do: protect Canadians while preserving their fundamental freedoms. It should not be controversial and it should not be partisan, yet here we are debating this issue. We all know that we don't want hate crimes or any other crime; we are against those.
It is necessary to explicitly protect freedoms that are already guaranteed under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Conservatives believe this language is essential, not optional.
I will tell you that this amendment is not about fighting hate; it's about criminalizing scripture. We have to deal with it. Canada has a free, democratic society. That freedom does not flow from government permission. It flows from the inherent rights of individuals, rights the state is obligated to respect, not redefine or weaken through vague legislation.
Freedom of expression and freedom of religion are not—