The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Pierre Paradis, tabled in the National Assembly this morning Bill no 54 aimed at improving the legal situation of animals. The purpose of this bill is to curb unacceptable behaviours by modifying the Civil Code of Québec so that animals are no longer considered to be movable property, but rather beings that have feelings and biological needs.

"In 2014, the Animal Legal Defense Fund found that, for the third year in a row, Québec was the 'best province to be an animal abuser,' a situation that is completely unacceptable. With the tabling of this bill, I confirm the government's willingness to reprimand animal negligence and cruelty. The definition of the legal situation of animals is based on the best European legislation. As for behaviours that will not be tolerated, we took inspiration from the statutes in effect in the three Canadian provinces that lead the Animal Legal Defense Fund's ranking—Manitoba, Ontario and British Columbia," said Mr. Paradis.

"The Civil Code of Québec must reflect the values of society. The bill that was tabled today is part of positive legislative change that attests to advancements in society," stated Minister of Justice Stéphanie Vallée.

The bill aimed at improving the legal situation of animals should be the subject of parliamentary committee consultations. Any person interested in this bill can read it and comment on it on the National Assembly's website at:
http://www.assnat.qc.ca/en/travaux-parlementaires/projets-loi/projet-loi-54-41-1.html.