Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Federal MP tables trespass bill


John Barlow has introduced a bill in the House of Commons to amend the Health of Animals Act to protect farmers from trespassers.

It is clearly aimed at animal rights activists who have occupied some farms as part of their protest demonstrations.

Ontario has already enacted legislation to address the same concerns.

 Barlow’s bill increases the penalties for groups and organizations that encourage trespass, or encourage individuals to threaten the health of workers and animals on farm facilities.

Barlow stresses that the bill does not hinder an individual’s right to peacefully protest on public property. He hopes that the bill will shore up farm biosecurity and strengthen Canada’s food supply.

Barlow is the Conservative MP for Foothills riding in Alberta.

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