A bill before the legislature would create buffer zones where protests would not be allowed, including areas around the homes of doctors and staff who provide abortions.

Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine says the bill is similar to existing laws in several provinces including, Alberta and British Columbia.

B.C.’s law was unsuccessfully challenged in court.

Fontaine says people seeking abortion services deserve privacy and safety, while people who want to protest against abortions are free to demonstrate outside the legislature.

Fontaine tried to bring in the measure when she and her fellow New Democrats were in Opposition, but it was not supported by the Progressive Conservative government at the time.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 7, 2024.

The Canadian Press