Courtenay council will decide on Wednesday (April 10) whether to green-light plans to install menstrual product dispensers in several men’s washrooms.
According to a staff report released on Friday, the city is seeking permission from council to make menstrual products free in all 11 bathrooms of the Lewis Centre and the LINC Youth Centre. This would include several bathrooms that are designated for men.
“In Canada, new labour code regulations came into force on December 15, 2023, requiring that, in all federally regulated workplaces, the employer must provide menstrual products in each toilet room, in addition to a covered disposal container,” reads the Courtenay report. “Menstrual equity campaigns are underway in a number of provinces.”
Dispensers at the LINC and the Lewis Centre are only currently provided in some women’s and gender-neutral bathrooms.
The city’s proposed program would require the purchase and installation of 11 menstrual product dispensers, according to the report. The city would also need to purchase and install 12 disposal units.
Courtenay staff will consider broader implementation of the project using the results of the pilot, according to the report.
The total cost is estimated at $5,500 for the current year. The City of Courtenay report states that future costs could come from continuing and or expanding the project.
Gender-equity review of bathrooms on agenda
Also for decision on Wednesday, Courtenay council will decide whether to green-light a review of city-operated staff and public bathrooms through the lens of gender equity.
Review would take inventory of the bathrooms, such as the number of menstrual product dispensers in existing bathrooms. Also reviewed would be the availability of baby change tables, and of washroom symbols.
“The signage on washroom doors and entrances requires updating to accurately reflect the amenities available,” reads the report. “As well as to reflect more gender inclusive language and symbols, including being clear that trans and gender diverse people are welcome.”
After review, says the report, City of Courtenay staff would return to council with recommendations to improve gender equity in city-operated bathrooms, as well as an outline of the associated impacts and costs to taking action.
In the Lewis Centre, several bathrooms currently read that they are “women’s” or “men’s.”
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