The present legal age of consent for sex in Nova Scotia is 16 years of age. Why is the legal age for drinking and smoking much higher? Both drinking and smoking are risky behaviours with perhaps even less danger and life-changing impact than sexual activity. We are sending a mixed message to kids that says, “Sex is dangerous, so use a condom (which may or may not help)” but then say, “Smoking is dangerous so don’t smoke.” We do not offer school kids extra filters for their cigarettes. We tell them “Smoking is not for you.” We do not educate children in how much they should drink to avoid getting drunk. We tell them, “Drinking is not for you.” Why do we seem so afraid to say to our children, “Sex is not for you”? What parent of a 16 year old wouldn’t blink an eye at their child’s arrival home from school to announce they’ll be up in their room having sex with friends? Are we simply trying to avoid guilt associated with questions like, "Mommy has sex with her boyfriend, why can't I?"

According to The Criminal Intelligence Service Canada (CISC), "In Canada, child prostitution is most frequently reported by law enforcement in the larger urban centres. The average age of children involved in this activity is 14, which is [WAS until May, 2008 when it was increased to 16] also Canada's age of consent." (source)

The age of consent in Canada changed in May of 2008 to 16.  This page will be updated soon when more clarity to this is found.