Posted by Stephen Harper on 6/9/2004, 3:39 pm, in reply to "Conservative MP calls for repeal of hate law" Last Updated Tue, 08 Jun 2004 16:16:38 EDT INDEPTH: Hate Crimes Harper was responding to comments by Tory candidate Cheryl Gallant, who said the law should be repealed. Gallant said the term "sexual orientation," which has been added to the protected categories under the existing law, is too vague and could include protection for pedophiles. "What I saw in the [Gallant] comments was simply that the term sexual orientation is legally vague," Harper told reporters in Quebec City. "So I think all that needs to be done for those who have those concerns is to make sure the law is clear. I'm certainly prepared to do that, but I am not prepared to repeal that legislation." The bill, which now requires only royal assent to become law, will add gays and lesbians to a list of groups legally protected from incitement of hatred and genocide under the Criminal Code. Opponents of the bill have complained that the legislation would stifle free speech, particularly among religious groups. Some have voiced concern that religious texts condemning homosexuality could be declared hate literature. Harper said the law needs to be modified to "make clear that freedom of religion and freedom of expression as we traditionally understood them are not jeopardized." Despite the flaws of the existing law, Harper said he supports the purpose of the legislation. "It's perfectly reasonable to have these protections," Harper said.
Harper says he would amend hate law
QUEBEC CITY - Conservative Leader Stephen Harper said Tuesday he would amend and clarify the recently passed hate law that offers protection to gays and lesbians.
