New legislation for the creation of Safe Access Zones around schools and health care facilities in Newfoundland and Labrador was passed in the House of Assembly yesterday.

The legislation balances the right to peaceful protest with the right of safe access to education and health services without physical threat or emotional upset.

It extends access zones to 50 metres from the boundaries of the land where schools and health facilities are located.

Justice Minister John Hogan introduced the legislation in the House yesterday. He says the legislation was created following public protests outside vaccination clinics earlier this year.