Facebook users are weighing on a landmark case concerning Ontario’s prostitution laws.
Arguments began Monday in Ontario’s Court of Appeal, as the Ontario and federal governments appeal a ruling that struck down three prostitution laws last year.
An Ontario judge last year said the laws against keeping a common bawdy house, communicating for the purposes of prostitution and living on the avails of the trade were contributing to the danger faced by prostitutes. Justice Susan Himel struck down the three laws, saying they violate the Charter of Rights.
We asked Globalnews.ca users whether they thought the laws against prostitution should be changed, and the majority of respondents said prostitution should be legalized, but with some restrictions.
“[Prostitution] should be regulated and a district should be made-up for it. Possibly turn some of the old run down buildings down town into a brothels and burlesque sort of area and make sure all the people who are working it are regularly checked for STI / STD’s and make sure they are safe and legal age,” said Dianne Vendette.
Jacqueline Drake said, “It should be regulated so that there are no kids and the girls are safe and reg. Doctor checks.”
“Legalize it to protect both sides,” said Sherri Lucas-Gibson.
Yllana Schreurs responded, “Yes legalize it. Keep health checks, age requirements. Then like everything else TAX it!”
Not all respondents agreed, with some saying the legalization of prostitution would weaken the family unit.
“How is prostitution good for family and nation?” asked Gerard Bechard.
“The government needs to tighten up and use the laws it has to protect women who are brought here as sex slaves,” said Brent Clark. “Pimps should be tossed in jail for a long time.”
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