Article content

Every so often the government has to revisit old legislation and renovate and discard obsolete laws that remain on the books long after they serve a useful purpose. Recently, the federal Minister of Justice, Jody Wilson Raybould, tabled legislation to remove “zombie laws” from the Criminal Code.

These are laws that have been struck down by the courts or are past their best before date. For example, it will no longer be against the law to challenge someone to a duel. From now on, Canada will be known as the nation of universal medical care and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the country that tolerates consensual fighting.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Cuthand: Removing 'zombie laws' from the Criminal Code Back to video

Of course it’s not a carte blanche if you decide to participate in a duel. You will face charges such as unsafe use of a firearm, attempting to injure, attempted murder or — if you’re the successful party — murder.

Also, it’s no longer illegal to fraudulently practise witchcraft. Which begs the question: how did they determine between fraudulent witchcraft and the real thing?

The Indian Act is a rich treasure trove of obsolete laws. According to this legislation, First Nations governments have a list of responsibilities that includes prevention of disorderly conduct and nuisances, destruction and control of noxious weeds, and the regulation of bee-keeping and poultry raising. First Nations self government and the version dumped on us by the colonial office are poles apart.