moved for leave to introduce Bill C-617, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (mischief relating to war memorials).
Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to introduce an act to amend the mischief provisions of the Criminal Code relating to war memorials.
The bill seeks to add significant penalties for anyone convicted of mischief against a war memorial, cenotaph or other structure honouring or remembering those who have died as a consequence of war. Respect for those who have given their lives in a sacrifice for Canada is the responsibility of every Canadian. Anyone who wilfully damages or desecrates a war memorial should face stiff consequences. We owe it to our men and women in uniform and especially to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for Canada to protect these honoured places.
I would ask my colleagues to support the bill and to help protect Canada's war memorials and cenotaphs.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)