Ottawa, ON – December 21, 2015 - The Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) applauds the Liberal Government’s promise to repeal Section 43 of the Criminal Code, as called for by the Truth and Reconciliation Report’s Recommendations. Sometimes referred to as the “Spanking Law,” Section 43 granted parents and care givers the legal right to spank or strike children under certain conditions.
As a longtime member of the Repeal 43 Committee - a coalition dedicated to the repeal of this unjust and damaging law - CASW has advocated for this change for many years alongside numerous other national organizations that value the dignity and worth of all people.
“Simply put, Section 43 of the Criminal Code of Canada justified violence against children by teachers and parents,” stated CASW President Morel Caissie. “Violence has no place in Canadian society, and CASW is thrilled that the Liberal Government is choosing to uphold the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms for all citizens regardless of their age.”
Furthermore, in choosing to heed the calls for a repeal by childrens’ and human right’s activists alike, the Federal Government simultaneously acts on one of the Recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Report. CASW vocally and adamantly supports the swift implementation of all 94 of the Report’s Calls to Action, and is encouraged that the Federal Government has begun with such an important change.
“CASW recognizes that the profession of social work is well positioned to advocate for the rights of children,’ continued Caissie. “I know that Social Workers across Canada will rise to the occasion, and do their part to ensure that all Canadian children are valued, respected, and free from violence.”
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For information contact:
Fred Phelps
CASW Executive Director
fred.phelps@casw-acts.ca