CANADA — Parents and school administrators are asking the federal government to clarify whether parental control can be used to block kids’ online activities.
The Federal Government is seeking public input on the issue of parental control as part of its response to the Supreme Court of Canada ruling that struck down Canada’s online privacy laws.
In a news release, the Department of Justice said the issue is an important opportunity for the public to participate in its consideration of new legislation that will clarify how parental control applies to online activities by parents and children.
The department noted it is currently working with other federal departments to clarify the issue in a way that would facilitate public participation and allow the courts to hear the case.
While parents are entitled to choose to restrict online activities of their children, the Federal Government believes there is a need to address this concern through the adoption of new laws that address the specific concerns raised in the Supreme.
The new legislation will provide clear, clear guidance for courts to make the appropriate determination in cases involving the online use of children.
This includes whether parental controls are available to prevent children from accessing harmful and objectionable content or services and whether they are appropriate to control the use of social media and other electronic devices by children.
While some of the existing legislation does not expressly address the issue, it will be up to the courts, in consultation with parents, to determine how to interpret this legislation.
A child is defined as a person under the age of 18, and parents are responsible for their children’s online activity.
A person is a child under the custody of a parent.
The federal government is asking for public input from the public on how the issue should be addressed.
The Federal Government will consider submissions through an online consultation process through the end of January, and will deliver its final decision in the spring of 2019.
To learn more about the Supreme’s ruling, read our FAQ on the Supreme ruling.
