Special Commission launches consultation and school tour on screen impact

Tashi Farmilo

The Special Commission on the Impacts of Screens and Social Networks on the Health and Development of Young People has launched an extensive online public consultation, aiming to gather perspectives from Quebecers about the influence of screens on youth. Open to anyone aged 14 and over, the consultation seeks to understand concerns regarding screen time, social media, video games, cyberbullying, and online supervision measures. The public can participate until January 31, 2025.

In addition to the online consultation, the Commission will conduct an on-site tour of schools across Quebec, including a stop in the Outaouais during the week of November 18. This tour will see Commission members interacting directly with students in primary and secondary schools to hear firsthand how screen use affects their lives.

Following a round of expert testimony heard in September, where more than 40 specialists and organizations shared insights on youth screen use, the Commission is committed to involving young voices in the discourse. Chair of the Commission, Amélie Dionne, Member of Parliament for Rivière-du-Loup-Témiscouata, stressed the value of community feedback, “Our aim is to hear directly from Quebecers, especially the youth, whose health and development we are studying.” Commission Vice-Chair and Marquette MP Enrico Ciccone added, “Consulting the public will enrich our understanding and ensure diverse opinions shape our recommendations.”

For residents of the Outaouais, this initiative comes at a critical time. With increased screen reliance among youth, community leaders are eager to address both the opportunities and challenges presented by technology. Following the public consultation and school tour, findings will be integrated into a report due by May 30, 2025.

For more information or to participate, visit the consultation at: https://questionnaire.simplesondage.com/f/s.aspx?s=2a8878c4-a000-4d3a-8445-848672b18a2f