The Sacred Spaces, Safe Places Act, 2025, aims to protect access to religious sites like churches and mosques. It sets rules about what people can and cannot do near these places. The law creates zones around religious institutions, within 150 meters, where certain behaviors are prohibited. If someone tries to dissuade others from visiting a religious site through harassment, threats, or persistent communication, they can face fines, jail, or both. The law also allows affected individuals to seek damages in court or get court orders to stop the harassment. Police can arrest people without a warrant if they believe an offence is happening.
If you visit a religious institution in Ontario, this law makes sure you can do so safely and without interference. It is illegal for anyone to try to persuade you not to go, threaten, or intimidate you near these places. If someone harasses you or tries to dissuade you, they could be fined or even jailed. The law also emphasizes that people must be told where the access zones are, so they know when they are near a protected area. Police officers have authority to arrest individuals breaking these rules immediately. The law encourages respect for religious institutions and supports the rights of visitors to access them without fear.
The bill does not include a detailed fiscal note, so exact costs are unavailable. It is expected that enforcement and legal actions such as issuing fines, court cases, or police arrests could involve some government expenses. Costs related to court orders and damages would depend on individual cases. Overall, the government may need additional resources to manage enforcement and legal processes, but specific financial estimates are not provided.
Supporters believe this law will improve safety and reduce harassment at religious sites. They argue it will give clear rules for behavior near these places, helping to protect individuals’ rights to worship or visit peacefully. The law’s provisions for fines, court injunctions, and police powers aim to prevent disruptive actions and ensure order. Proponents see this as a way to promote respect and security for religious communities, particularly in a time of increased concern about harassment and violence.
Critics argue the law might limit free speech and peaceful protests. They worry that defining zones and prohibiting certain communications could lead to overreach or misuse by authorities. Some fear it might restrict legitimate expressions of opinion near religious sites, especially if notices about access zones are not clear or broadly shared. Additionally, opponents are concerned about the costs of enforcement and whether the law balances safety with the right to assembly and free speech. They suggest careful monitoring is needed to prevent unintended restrictions on personal freedoms.