$4 Million Allocated to Prevent Sexting Among Youth
The provincial government announced $4 million in new funding to tackle sexting among young people. The money will be spent over five years under a cyberbullying action plan. Officials said the funds are allocated to prevent sexting among youth.
Funding breakdown
Authorities provided a detailed breakdown of the investment. It targets schools, police and prosecutors.
- $1 million will fund police training at the École nationale de police du Québec.
- Funds will also support the implementation of the SEXTO method in school complaints.
- $650,000 will support grant programs tied to prevention efforts.
- $2.4 million is allocated to prosecutors handling criminal and penal cases.
The total equals $4 million spread over five years. The aim is to strengthen prevention and response.
SEXTO method and police response
The SEXTO protocol has operated in schools for several years. Quebec police services joined the Sexto project to speed responses.
The method cut processing times from many months to a median of four days. Faster response reduces harms to young people.
Prevention and education
The Sûreté du Québec will expand prevention from primary to secondary schools. It will also run awareness programs for parents.
Grant funding will help community and school initiatives. The measures aim to reach children and their families early.
Ministers and context
Justice Minister Simon Jolin‑Barette described sexting among adolescents as a serious social problem. Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière warned of lasting consequences for young people.
Officials noted many adolescents underestimate the impact of sharing intimate images. The new funding seeks faster, more coordinated interventions.
Collaboration and next steps
The action plan is a joint effort by four ministries. It involves Public Security, Justice, Education and Family.
Training sessions will take place at the École nationale de police du Québec. Filmogaz.com reported on the government announcement.
