ONTARIO PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM SEXUAL ABUSE WITH THE PASSING OF ERIN’S LAW
NEWS
CORNWALL – The Ontario government is increasing awareness to better identify and prevent childhood sexual abuse. In December 2024, Ontario passed Erin’s Law (Child Sexual Abuse Prevention and Reporting).This amendment to the Education Act requires school boards to implement policy that helps children identify sexual abuse in an age appropriate way and report it to trusted individuals. Through mandated training for teachers and administrative staff, the Ontario government is creating an environment where children feel safe to report sexual abuse.
“Our government is taking decisive action to ensure teachers and schools have the tools they need to identify, report and support children experiencing sexual abuse,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. “We will leave no stone unturned when it comes to protecting our most precious residents, our children.”
Erin’s Law will also mandate the distribution of informational resources throughout the school ecosystem, to groups such as parents, guardians, teachers, and support staff within Ontario school boards. These resources will provide information about child sexual abuse prevention and reporting, including information on available counselling and resources for children who are sexually abused.
“Childhood sexual abuse has long-lasting effects, which is why we must ensure we use every tool and resource available to help prevent it. said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Education. Implementing Erin’s Law in Ontario complements and strengthens current mandatory learning in the curriculum on recognizing abuse and seeking help, while also providing parents and school staff with information on prevention and reporting. Through Erin’s Law, students will be better equipped to identify abuse and understand the importance of reporting it to a trusted adult. By strengthening support and resources for parents and teachers, we help ensure that children receive the assistance they need and that they are better protected from harm.”
By equipping students and teachers with the proper tools to identify and report sexual abuse, the government is creating a safer Ontario for children.
“The Children’s Treatment Centre enthusiastically lauds the Ontario government’s enactment of Erin’s Law.” said David Michaud, President, Children’s Treatment Centre. “The law is seen as inclusive and strategic by incorporating parents, children and teachers in its design to promote child safety through a program of prevention. The Children’s Treatment Centre is prepared to assist the local schools with the implementation and to offer support for this initiative.”
“The Children’s Treatment Centre applauds the government’s enactment of Erin’s Law.” said Don Fairweather, Retired Executive Superintendent, Upper Canada District School Board, Past President, Children’s Treatment Centre. “Our staff and volunteers stand ready to support local school Boards in its implementation by sharing information about sexual abuse prevention and raising awareness of the Centre’s free, confidential counselling services for abused children and youth in our community. By working together to better educate young people families and educators, we can create a healthier community and brighter tomorrows for victims of childhood sexual abuse.”
Additional Quotes:
“Erin’s Law is a necessary and meaningful step in protecting Ontario’s children. Abusers often manipulate children into silence, isolating them in fear and shame. This law aims to break that isolation by providing children with knowledge, strengthening the circle of protection around them, and ensuring parents and educators are equipped to recognize and respond to signs of abuse. It’s about creating an environment where children feel safe to come forward and seek help.” – Jess Dixon, MPP Kitchener South-Hespeler
“Erin’s Law is a critical step in empowering children, families, and educators in Ontario with the knowledge to identify and prevent sexual abuse. This legislation ensures that no child has to suffer in silence. With this important legislation, our government is fostering an environment in our communities where children feel safe, supported, and heard. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to strengthen protections for Ontario’s most vulnerable, and I want to thank The Gatehouse for all the advocacy for getting it done.” –Christine Hogarth, MPP Etobicoke-Lakeshore.
“I am so proud that Erin’s Law has passed, as it is another important step our government has taken to promote the safety of our children and communities. Through bolstering our education systems, spreading knowledge of warning signs to parents and teachers, and providing counselling, we are doing everything in our power to protect victims and prevent future victims of the heinous crime of sexual abuse.” -Laurie Scott, MPP Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock
Quick Facts:
- Erin’s Law was founded by Erin Merryn, an American survivor of child sexual abuse who now is a dedicated advocate for child sexual abuse prevention.
- Erin’s Law is currently passed in 38 states in the United States of America before passing in Ontario legislature.
- One in 10 Canadians reported being sexually abused before turning 18 years old.
Additional Resources:
Erin’s Law (Child Sexual Abuse Prevention and Reporting), 2024
The Children’s Treatment Centre
Cornwall Police Services
Media Contact:
Office of MPP Nolan Quinn
Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry
613-933-6513
nolan.quinn@pc.ola.org