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House Bill

Bill C-269

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
April 25, 2022
An Act to amend the Telecommunications Act (suicide prevention)
  • Bill C-269 is a proposed law in Canada that aims to amend the Telecommunications Act to introduce a three-digit phone number dedicated to suicide prevention services. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission would be required to designate this number within one year after the law comes into force.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • The steelman argument in favor of Bill C-269, An Act to amend the Telecommunications Act (suicide prevention), is that it addresses a critical public health issue in a tangible and accessible way. By designating a three-digit phone number dedicated to suicide-prevention services, this amendment ensures that individuals in crisis have a simple and easy-to-remember resource at their disposal. This can potentially save lives by providing immediate support and intervention to those who may be contemplating suicide. Furthermore, by enshrining this requirement in legislation, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission is compelled to take action, thereby increasing accountability and ensuring that this vital service is made available to those who need it most. Implementing this amendment also demonstrates the government's commitment to mental health and suicide prevention, sending a strong message to Canadians that their

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman argument opposing Bill C-269: While the intention behind Bill C-269 to establish a three-digit phone number for suicide prevention services is noble, there are concerns that this legislation may not be the most effective approach to address the issue. 1. Limited resources: By mandating the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to allocate resources towards establishing a dedicated three-digit number, it may divert funding and attention from other critical mental health initiatives. This could result in a dilution of resources that may be better utilized in enhancing existing suicide prevention programs or expanding access to mental health services. 2. Effectiveness: The effectiveness of a three-digit phone number dedicated to suicide prevention services is not well-established. There is a risk that individuals in crisis may still rely on existing helplines or emergency numbers, leading to confu
House First Reading
  • April 25, 2022, 11 a.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read