Manitoba considers measures to fight cyberbullying

WINNIPEG — Now that Manitoba has passed its anti- bullying law, the NDP government is looking at more measures that could include protection orders, mandatory penalties and an anonymous tip line.

Bill 18, which was criticized by the Opposition Progressive Conservatives as lacking teeth, was a stepping stone of sorts, Education Minister Nancy Allan said Thursday.

“We believe that Bill 18 is a framework to create safer schools,” she said.

“We’re going to continue to move forward with our education partners in regards to keeping young people safe.”

The legislation, which received final approval Sept. 13 after months of opposition delay, expanded the definition of bullying that schools must address to include online activity.

It also expanded the duties of teachers and staff to report incidents to their principal.

The law requires schools to have human diversity policies and, most controversially, accommodate students who want to set up groups that promote equality,

gay- straight including alliances.

While much of the public debate focused on concerns from Tories and religious groups about whether gay- straight alliances violate the religious freedom of faithbased schools, the Tories also criticized the proposed law for lacking enforcement mechanisms.

The bill did not set specify penalties for bullying, leaving the decision to principals and school divisions.

It also did not contain an anonymous way for students to report bullying, and did not require that parents be informed if their child is bullied or bullies others. Current law only requires parents to be notified if their child suffers harm.

Allan plans to fill some of those gaps in the coming months.