Councillor Carmen DeRose wants destruction of the Canadian flag criminalized, amending the Criminal Code
A firm stance has been taken by a Thorold City councillor over desecration of the Canadian flag.
Council unanimously passed Carmen DeRose's motion that Canada's criminal code be amended to criminalize destruction of the flag.
He wants it sent to the Prime Minister. "I saw this recently happening in British Columbia, it broke my heart. I never thought I'd see this while I was alive. I'm very disappointed, and there needs to be severe consequences for anyone doing that."
Councillor Ken Sentance was surprised this was needed, thinking it was on the books. He also likes upholding peaceful protest, which is in the motion.
DeRose's motion includes "To the purpose of criminalizing the act of desecrating the Canadian flag, and two, that the resolution be circulated to the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, and the Office of the Member of Parliament Niagara Centre, Vance Badawey."
It's also to be sent to the Niagara municipalities.
The motion adds desecration can cause significant emotional harm to Canadians, particularly veterans.