Canadian showbiz to have code of conduct over sexual harassment

In the wake of the numerous ongoing sexual assault allegations in Hollywood, the Canadian film and TV industry has jointly decided to introduce a code of conduct to end sexual harassment on and away from movie and TV sets.

Following a meeting by industry unions, guilds and associations, Canadian industry representative said in a statement that they will "collaborate on an industry-wide response to sexual harassment, discrimination, bullying and violence".

"We agree to zero tolerance for such behaviour. We recognise that increasing gender equality and diversity across our industry is an important part of the solution," read the statement, reports hollywoodreporter.com.

The proposed cross-industry code of conduct will also define "expectations of appropriate and inappropriate behaviour, enforcement and consequences".

The industry discussions follow similar moves by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to draw up its own code of conduct for its members in the wake of allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein and many others of sexual harassment, abuse and rape.

The Canadian industry also proposed on Thursday "more effective reporting mechanisms and supports" so that talent can report allegations and "more effective enforcement of existing industry policies".

--IANS

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