An NDP MLA wants to ban protesting, demonstrating or picketing around health-care facilities that provide abortion services to Manitoba women.
St. Johns MLA Nahanni Fontaine introduced a bill Thursday to establish ‘buffer zones’ around applicable clinics and hospitals.
The Manitoba NDP said the legislation would strengthen “protections for patients against harassment or determent,” as well as extend buffer zones around homes or offices of health care workers in the field.
In a news release, Fontaine said, “Any harassment, coercion or abuse directed toward patients by demonstrators is unacceptable. No woman should be deterred from accessing health care based purely on ideological agendas.”
If passed, Manitoba would be following in the steps of other provinces that have enacted similar laws. In May 2017 the Ontario government introduced its legislation in light of incidents of harassment and intimidation, and Alberta passed its bill, prompting a walk out from members of the United Conservative in protest.
The Manitoba NDP noted a history of violence against doctors and nurses who delivered abortions in the Prairie province.
“We believe Bill 200 will keep patients and front line workers safe while improving access to abortion services for young women and girls,” said Fontaine.
In response to the bill, one local anti-abortion group told CTV News it does not demonstrate at hospitals, clinics and pharmacies. Life’s Vision Manitoba also said “due to certain views that are promoted within society” it has fewer opportunities to participate in dialogue on the issue and carry out a mission of education with the goal of protecting human life.
