Mr. John Nater, MP
House of Commons
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6
Dear Mr. Nater,
The EFC is pleased to support
Bill C-219. This bill would increase the penalty for sexual exploitation of a young person in a relationship of dependency or a person with a disability. We know that younger age, as well as physical or mental disability, are factors which can lead to increased vulnerability to sexual exploitation.
The sentence for criminal offences tends to indicate the seriousness of the conduct covered by the offence. A greater penalty for the sexual exploitation of persons with disabilities or young people in relationships of dependency communicates that these are offences the government considers to be very serious and that they should be dealt with more severely.
Criminal laws express and reinforce the basic commitments that bind a society together. In a very real sense, the law is a teacher. These offences violate human dignity and are harmful to those who are vulnerable among us. The gravity of these sexual exploitation offences should be reflected in our laws.
Thank you for introducing this important legislation and taking steps to protect vulnerable Canadians.
Sincerely,
Julia Beazley
Director, Public Policy
[Editor's note: EFC supporters can learn more about the bill at
TheEFC.ca/C-219.]
Author:
Julia Beazley