Parliamentary sub-committee attacks private members freedom to bring forward motions to the House of Commons
Toronto, March 21, 2013 - A sub-committee on Private Members’ Business gave a shocking and unprecedented decision by declaring a private members motion on discrimination against women as non-votable. Mark Warawa MP (Langley, B.C.) was told that his Private Members Motion 408 would not be considered even though it followed all the criteria and House rules.
"Canada prides itself on freedom of speech and elects men and women to parliament who have the courage to bring forward issues of concern to the Canadian people," said Jim Hughes, National president of Campaign Life Coalition. "This is anti-democratic and a violation of MPs rights to be heard in parliament."
"Motion 408 calls for protection for women and girls. Who can be opposed to such a motion?" said Mary Ellen Douglas, National Organizer for Campaign Life Coalition. "Canada presents itself as being a defender of human rights here and around the world and yet our own MPs are not free to bring forward private members motions without being censured by their own Parliament."
Campaign Life Coalition trusts the House will change its mind on this quickly.
About Campaign Life Coalition
Campaign Life Coalition is a national, non-profit organization involved in political action and advocacy for legal and cultural change in Canada with respect to protecting human life and the family. It is non-partisan and encourages voting based on principles, not party. For more information visit http://www.campaignlifecoalition.com.
Media Contacts:
Mary Ellen Douglas, National Organizer of Campaign Life Coalition, 613-389-4472
Jeff Gunnarson, Vice-Chair Toronto, Campaign Life Coalition, 416- 204-9749 ex. 249
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