Quebec premier says it's up to parents — not his government — to limit kids' screen time

Premier François Legault says Quebec parents need to do more to limit their child's screen time.

Speaking at the National Assembly Tuesday, Legault said prolonged screen time use is a problem for children around the world, including Quebec, but he says there's only so much his government can do to solve it.

"The real challenge is what happens at home," he said. "We also need the co-operation of parents to ensure that screen time is limited."

Legault's comments contradict those of Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant, who a day earlier suggested the Quebec government might introduce a law that limits children's use of screens as part of the province's updated strategy to promote healthy lifestyles for youth.

"We want a version that is very much adapted to Quebec's reality," said Carmant. "I'm telling you right now, nothing is off the table. If we have to legislate it, we will."

Carmant gave no further details on possible legislation, but stressed that it's a question "of striking the right balance between raising public awareness and developing young people's digital skills."

Quebec Social Services Minister Lionel Carmant says the issue of screen time use will be discussed at the Coalition Avenir Québec's general assembly in May. (Sylvain Roy Roussel/Radio-Canada)

Measures already in place, says Legault

On Tuesday, Legault pointed out that his government has already taken measures to reduce screen time for children, including banning the use of cellphones in the classroom, with some exceptions, and banning screens in daycare centres for children under the age of two.

Last month, however, the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) government rejected a motion from the Parti Québécois (PQ) demanding an all-out screen ban in schools and daycares.

PQ leader Paul Saint-Pierre Plamondon says the government has to act soon.

"I expect the government to move forward and come with concrete actions [and] important changes at the school where the screen should be limited," he said at the National Assembly Tuesday.

The Quebec government's strategy aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles for youth expires in 2025.

Carmant has already said the issue of screen time use will be discussed at the CAQ's general assembly in May.