Mr. Speaker, I have a return to an oral question asked by Mr. Henry on April 27, 1999. It is in regard to rental of restricted and adult movies to youth.
The Northwest Territories' current legislation is the Film Classification Act with accompanying film classification regulations. This legislation imposes restrictions and regulations on movie theatre operators in the Northwest Territories and adopts the Alberta movie classification system.
Recent changes to the Film Classification Act which were included as part of our government's regulatory reform initiative were intended to streamline the film classification regulations as well as clarify the act. No additional restrictions were considered when changing the act.
Video distributors and rental outlets in the NWT do not require a special licence other than their business licence to operate. Restricted or adult videos are available through various retail outlets and sources. Established businesses from large chain stores to the corner convenience stores can sell and rent videos. They are also available through mail order or Internet. A significant enforcement effort would be required on the part of this government to ensure effective legislative controls on the sale or rental of videos.
The Criminal Code of Canada does control obscene materials in Canada and the RCMP enforce these laws. Municipalities are also delegated authority under GNWT legislation in which they can regulate the display and distribution of adult materials within their community. Enforcement by communities presents the same challenges to them as it does to the territorial government. Presently, only the City of Yellowknife has a by-law controlling adult publications.
Perhaps there are more effective solutions such as promoting voluntary compliance with guidelines for the display and sale or rental of restricted and adult videos. As Members can appreciate, the regulation and setting of moral standards for the community is a matter that requires serious consideration. The department will continue to look into this important issue.