Social media ban for under-16s consistent with Charter, government says
OTTAWA — The Liberal government says while its proposed digital safety legislation might affect freedom of expression, the bill itself is consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
OTTAWA — Canada's Liberal government maintains that its proposed digital safety legislation, Bill C-34, remains consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms despite concerns from experts that it could face a constitutional challenge. The bill aims to ban social media access for children under the age of 16. In a Charter statement, the government's justice minister analyzed whether the bill aligns with various Charter provisions.
The statement asserts that while the proposed ban may affect freedom of expression and equality rights, as well as section 8 which pertains to privacy, it is consistent with the Charter for several reasons. Firstly, age restrictions are already in place for activities such as voting and driving. Secondly, the government cites extensive evidence about the potential risks associated with social media use among young people.
Furthermore, the statement clarifies that social media platforms with adequate safeguards will be exempt from the proposed ban.
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