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Québec solidaire (QS) marked International International Women’s Day on Friday by calling for the provision of free menstrual hygiene products in public venues such as schools and libraries.
QS MNA Ruba Ghazal noted that such a policy has been in effect in Scotland since 2022, where the products can also be found for free in town halls, public gymnasiums and pools.
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Ghazal argued that thousands of Quebec women have difficulty accessing the products because of the increase in the cost of living.
“One Quebec woman out of five must use an alternative measure (such as tissue, fabric or toilet paper) because of the price of tampons and sanitary napkins. It’s scandalous!” wrote Ghazal in a communiqué. “Offering menstrual hygiene products for free in public venues such as schools and libraries will have a major impact on gender equality and the fight against the increase in the cost of living.”
Ghazal added that the federal government had begun to provide such products free of charge in its workplaces.
“Quebec must continue to be a pioneer and go further in making them free and accessible in our public institutions,” she said.
Such a policy would also “break a taboo,” said Ghazal. “It would send a message that menstruation is normal, that there is no shame in talking about it.”
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