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Proposed changes to Quebec law unveiled at forum on sexual violence

The Forum Against Sexual Violence included about 200 attendees in Quebec City. Jean-Vincent Verville/Global News

Quebec’s Higher Education minister, Hélène David, unveiled a sheaf of new policies at a forum against sexual violence held in Quebec City Thursday afternoon.

At a gathering of about 200 people drawn from government, community organizations and outreach workers such as psychologists, David handed down long-awaited policies that have become more urgent in the wake of the #MeToo campaign.

With among more than a dozen measures announced, the province will invest $25 million over three years to fight the problem of sexual violence.

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Most of that money is expected to go toward improving access to aid services for victims.

Other changes include making it obligatory for employers to have a sexual harassment policy, increased training for police in investigating sexual assault, and modifying the provincial labour code to include prohibitions on sexual harassment.

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“It’s an important issue for society,” said Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard. “We have to take care and show people that we care and we want to help them.”

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