TORONTO – Ontario is proposing new legislation aimed at stopping sexual violence and harassment, as part of a $41-million plan.
Premier Kathleen Wynne says the plan tries to change behaviours and challenge social norms, adding sexual violence is rooted in misogyny.
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Wynne announced in December that such a plan would be accelerated after several women came forward to say they’d been harassed or sexually assaulted by former CBC radio host Jian Ghomeshi – who has denied the allegations – but never reported it.
The province is promising stronger workplace safety legislation requiring employers to investigate and address workplace harassment, including sexual harassment.
The plan, announced today, includes legislation to eliminate a two-year limitation period for civil sexual assault claims and an “enhanced prosecution model” tailored to sexual assault cases.
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It also includes a public education campaign, with an ad that calls on bystanders to intervene.
Wynne says a permanent roundtable on violence against women will also be established.
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