New cyberbullying bill to prohibit sending ‘intimate images’ without consent

Video: Peter MacKay introduces new anti-cyberbullying legislation

OTTAWA – The Conservative government has introduced legislation that would make it illegal to distribute “intimate images” without consent and to make it easier to take such images off the Internet.

Justice Minister Peter MacKay and Public Safety Minister Steven Blaney announced the bill after question period today.

Video: The Harper government has introduced new cyberbullying legislation. Shirlee Engel reports.

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If passed, the legislation would also empower courts to seize computers, cellphones and other devices used in the offence and provide for reimbursement of costs related to removing the images from the Internet.

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MacKay says the legislation is part of the government’s commitment to help put an end to online exploitation and harassment.

READ MORE: Kids Help Phone experts assist youth dealing with bullying, self-harm among other issues

He says it’s clear that cyberbullying and online harassment can destroy lives, and that the government has an obligation to make the penalties and consequences more serious for perpetrators.

MacKay says Canadians have been touched by the deaths of a number of teens tormented by online bullies, including 15-year-old Todd Loik, a Saskatchewan high school student.

Video: Peter MacKay introduces new anti-cyberbullying legislation

MORE: 1 year later: A look at anti-bullying measures in Canada since Amanda Todd’s death