Liberals will amend hate bill to clarify reading religious texts isn't hate, Fraser says

Fraser said Liberals are willing to amend Bill C-9 to clarify that reading religious texts would not be treated as hate and to address other concerns; he also accused Conservatives of obstructing the bill as Parliament considers the government's agenda.

Parliament has opened its current sitting with a focus on cooperation and on the government's ability to advance its agenda. Fraser said on Tuesday the Liberals have shown a willingness to accommodate concerns about Bill C-9. The bill was introduced to create new intimidation and obstruction offences around buildings where an identifiable group gathers. Fraser also accused the Conservatives of obstructing progress on the legislation. Key points: - Fraser said Liberals are willing to amend the bill to clarify that reading religious texts would not be treated as hate. - The Liberals have indicated flexibility on the bill's proposed definition of "hate" and on removing the need for provincial attorney general consent to lay a hate speech charge. - Bill C-9 is described as creating new intimidation and obstruction offences around places where identifiable groups gather. - The recent sitting has been described as collaborative, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is reported to be cautious about giving Prime Minister Carney a reason to trigger a snap election. Summary: Fraser said the government has shown readiness to modify C-9 to address specific concerns raised about its scope and prosecution process. Undetermined at this time.