The Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, today announced the Provincial Government will introduce legislation during the spring sitting of the House of Assembly to create safe access zones around educational and health care facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Minister Hogan is available to media today for virtual one-on-one interviews. To schedule an interview contact Emily-Jane Gillingham at emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca.
If passed, this legislation will prohibit interference, besetting, physically interfering with or intimidating service providers and users of health and education facilities.
This proposed legislation is intended to balance the right to peaceful protest with the right of individuals to access health and education services free from physical threats and emotional upset.
The safe access zone would cover an area of a maximum of 50 metres around the facilities as defined by the legislation. Newfoundland and Labrador has similar legislation in place for abortion clinics.
Quotes
“Our collective responsibility is to keep everyone safe as we navigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Our government is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. The proposed legislation will enhance protection of residents, health care workers, students, teachers, and administrators from intimidation and harassment.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“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 dissent, with the right of others to safely access health and education services.”
Honourable John Hogan
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
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Access to Abortion Services Act
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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca
Emily Jane-Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca