moved for leave to introduce Bill C-305, an act to amend the Criminal Code (protection of children).
Madam Speaker, the purpose of the bill I am introducing today is to repeal section 43 of the Criminal Code, the section that allows corporal punishment of children by parents and teachers.
Condoning corporal punishment can lead to physical and psychological injury and even ultimately to the death of children. It contributes to violence in society and is contrary to both the charter of rights and freedoms and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Section 43 allows punishment causing bruising and contusions. It allows children to be struck with belts and other objects. It is a relic of a bygone age and has no place in a democratic society that respects and values children.
Finally, I would note that several European countries have ended the legal approval of corporal punishment with very significant, positive results. I urge the government to uphold the rights of children and repeal this harmful and discriminatory section of the Criminal Code of Canada.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed.)