Nova Scotia makes second attempt at ‘vital’ cyberbullying legislation
HALIFAX — The Nova Scotia government has narrowed the definition of cyberbullying in a replacement law for pioneering legislation struck down by the province’s top court nearly two years ago.
The original Cyber-safety Act, the first of its kind in Canada, was struck down in late 2015 after the Nova Scotia Supreme Court ruled that it infringed on Charter rights.
Justice Minister Mark Furey said Thursday the court ruled the previous law infringed on freedom of expression and violated the principles of fundamental justice by failing to provide notice to respondents.
“That’s why it was so important that we introduce a piece of legislation that protects victims of cyberbullying while preserving our fundamental freedoms,” said Furey.