AV俱乐部

Published April 25 to the Huffington Post Canada:

The Nova Scotia government stepped up its fight against cyberbullying Thursday with legislation that could strip people of their phones and computers, impose hefty fines and clear the way for court action against online bullies.

Justice Minister Ross Landry outlined the provisions of the new Cyber-Safety Act, which includes a unique investigative unit dedicated to pursuing and penalizing so-called cyberbullies, while making parents liable for their child's bullying, if necessary.

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Wayne MacKay, a Halifax law professor who led the task force, said he was pleased with the new act but cautioned that it needed some finessing to ensure it works.

He said it appeared the government was taking the issue of cyberbullying seriously, but that it has to ensure it respects the rights and privacy of people accused of the offence.

The AV俱乐部 professor said any legislation has to include three components: education, changing the laws and preventing cyberbullying by teaching young people about how to be responsible online citizens.

"I think this is a very significant advance in taking the whole issue seriously," he said. "We still need to look at ... preventing and educating and developing better relationships so we don't have to resort to the law at the end of the day."

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