The Honourable John Hogan, Q.C., Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, today introduced legislation to create safe access zones around educational and health care facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
If passed, the Access to Health and Educational Services Act will ensure safe, unimpeded access to health and educational services in the province. The proposed bill prohibits interference and intimidation of service providers and users near health and educational facilities.
The legislation would balance the right to peaceful protest with the right of individuals to access health and education services free from physical threats and emotional upset. Newfoundland and Labrador already has similar legislation for abortion clinics.
The proposed legislation would see access zones extend 50 metres from the boundaries of the land where schools and health facilities are located. Contravention of the Act would result in imprisonment or a fine of up to $10,000. The legislation would provide an exception for persons participating in lawful strike activities as well as enforcement activities by the police.
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“This government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Individuals receiving health care services or attending an educational facility must be able to do so without fear or intimidation. This proposed legislation is about balancing the right of some to protest or express disagreement, with the right of others to safely access health and education services.”
Honourable John Hogan, Q.C.
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
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Learn more
Bill 51: Access to Health and Educational Services Act
News Release: Provincial Government to Introduce Legislation for Safe Access Zones
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Media contact
Emily Jane-Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-2634, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca