In a groundbreaking move, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has instituted a new policy mandating free menstrual products in all bathrooms at the Canadian Parliament. This policy, which applies to all federally regulated employers, aims to ensure equal access to menstrual products regardless of gender identity. The announcement has sparked a heated debate online and among political figures.

Former Canadian Conservative Sen. Linda Frum shared a photo on social media showcasing a basket of free pads and tampons inside a men's bathroom meant for transgender members of Parliament. Her post highlighted the necessity to provide access to menstrual products in all gendered bathrooms, stating that "now that men menstruate too," these products must be available for free.

The change in Canadian Labour Code regulations, originally announced in May, took effect on December 15. The updated code stipulates that menstrual products must be available in all toilet rooms regardless of their labeled genders. The goal is to ensure that menstruating employees feel safe and comfortable using the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity.

While it is up to each employer to secure funding for the purchase of these products as well as disposal containers, Trudeau's government emphasizes that this initiative promotes better health outcomes and workplace productivity while combating the stigma surrounding menstruation.

Efforts to include menstrual products in men's bathrooms began in 2020 when Rachel Ettinger, the founder of the Here for Her campaign focused on health education, petitioned her local representative. Ettinger highlighted that menstrual products should be viewed as a necessity item, just like toilet paper, and argued that true inclusivity requires their provision.

Supporters of the policy change, including Megan White, executive director of Period Packs, believe that providing free menstrual products creates a more equitable work environment. White emphasized the convenience and relief of knowing that these products are consistently available, eliminating the need to carry them around discreetly. She added that it is not appropriate to expect employees to leave during their breaks to find menstrual products.

Critics, however, have spoken out against the new policy. Political columnist Brian Lilley argues that it disregards the country's growing unaffordability in favor of bathroom equity measures. He also criticizes the elimination of the word "women" and its replacement with the term "menstruating employees" on government websites, suggesting it is an attempt at political correctness.

Maxime Bernier, the leader of the People's Party, goes further and labels the policy as a "systematic attack against masculinity." He claims that the distribution of tampons in men's bathrooms is part of a larger ideological battle to destroy Western societies.

The implementation of this policy in the Canadian Parliament is seen as a significant step towards inclusivity and accessibility. Proponents hope that it will inspire private businesses to follow suit and provide menstrual products in men's bathrooms. Meanwhile, the debate surrounding the policy change continues, highlighting the differing opinions on gender, equality, and societal norms.

Please note that The Post has reached out to Trudeau's office for comment but has not received a response at the time of writing.