Mr. Speaker, the message is clear. Sexual harassment will not be tolerated, especially among the ranks of the Canadian Armed Forces. Chief of Defence Staff General Baril recently stated that harassment is particularly appalling when it occurs in our military.
In a system where chivalry, honour, protection of the weakest and respect for all should be guiding principles, General Baril is demanding a higher standard of conduct for members in uniform, as are Canadians, as am I. There are no excuses for this unacceptable behaviour, and those who do not comply can expect to pay the price.
I commend the military for taking a hard line against sexual harassment. It will help to eradicate such inappropriate conduct in the Canadian forces as well as send a clear and unequivocal statement to society that sexual harassment and sexual misconduct in any form are intolerable.