Thank you, Mr. Speaker. WHEREAS Members of this Legislative Assembly recognize that bullying is a significant concern for Northwest Territories residents, and on February 16, 2012, passed Motion 5-17(2) on anti-bullying measures;
AND WHEREAS the use of social media, smartphones, and other information and communication technologies to bully, also known as cyberbullying, has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, with tragic consequences;
AND WHEREAS recent events in Canada including, most unfortunately, suicides of young people who were victims of cyberbullying, have brought this issue to the forefront of national attention and highlighted the need for changes to our justice system;
AND WHEREAS Justice Ministers across Canada are working to combat cyberbullying;
NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for Hay River North, that this Legislative Assembly supports the efforts of the federal, provincial and territorial Justice Ministers to better protect children by combatting cyberbullying, including changes to the Criminal Code of Canada that would make it a specific criminal offence to share intimate images without consent;
AND FURTHER, that the Speaker transmit this motion to the Prime Minister, federal Opposition leaders, and federal, provincial and territorial Ministers of Justice.