The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson last week introduced proposed legislation that would require the regulation of video games and establish a new definition of film to include new formats that may emerge in the future. Among the proposed amendments to the Amusement Act are provisions that would create sanctions for those who distribute age-restricted film or video games to children. "Much like in movie theatres, children may be exposed to inappropriate material in video games and our government has discussed this issue with parents and retailers, who are concerned that Manitoba children are not exposed to adult content," Robinson said. The Amusement Amendment Act would allow new powers for the adoption of classification schemes of other bodies. "While we are proceeding with this legislation, Manitoba will also continue its work with other provinces in establishing a national standard," Robinson said. This legislation is also consistent with the aims of the Healthy Child Committee of Cabinet, which improves the lives of children, the minister added. "Stakeholders and experts have told us that the video games to come will be increasingly realistic, more sexually explicit and graphically violent. And parents have told us they want better protection for their children."
