Quebec considering placing restrictions on school initiations

QUEBEC – The Quebec government is considering cracking down on initiations at universities to reduce the number of assaults against female students.

Lise Theriault, the minister responsible for the status of women, says the government will come up with measures in the next few months.

Theriault says universities should start thinking about the possibility of banning the practice.

She expressed concerns about reports that Universite de Montreal law students felt almost forced to undress and to participate in activities of a sexual nature when the school year recently began.

It remains to be seen what the government can do while at the same time respecting the autonomy of universities.

Higher Education Minister Helene David said a few days ago that universities need to clarify the regulations governing such activities.

On Tuesday, Theriault said it is time to do away with the tradition.

“I think there is no place for the culture of rape in universities, especially when you’re talking about (male) law students who are future jurists and who could become judges,” she said.

“There will definitely be action. We can’t let this go on.”

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