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Breaking the Silence: the need for anti-SLAPP legislation in Ontario
Dec 22, 2010 07:23 AM
Ecojustice and CELA have co-authored a new report on SLAPPs to help protect the public's right to express their concerns on important issues.
Ecojustice and the Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA) have co-authored a new report on strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs).
The Ontario government has established an expert advisory council to explore how to design an effective anti-SLAPP law for the province. Our report outlines how this can best be accomplished. Specifically, we are calling for anti-SLAPP legislation that stops improper and unmerited claims from stifling public debate and preventing the public from expressing their concerns about matters in the public interest. Effective anti-SLAPP law would:
- Guarantee a right to public participation in matters of public interest;
- Allow courts to review and dismiss SLAPP suits expeditiously;
- Provide strong disincentives against launching SLAPPs in the form of cost awards and punitive damages.
On December 21st, 2010 the expert advisory panel released its recommendations. Their report largely incorporated our key points. Ecojustice is now continuing to engage with the provincial government on the issue and push for a strong anti-SLAPP law that will protect citizens and put Ontario on par with other leading jurisdictions in North America.
Ecojustice staff:
“A strong anti-SLAPP law would stop abuses of the justice system and protect the voices of citizens on important public interest issues.”
- Hugh Wilkins, staff lawyer
- Hugh Wilkins, staff lawyer
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