A major aim of the tort of defamation is to seek to “protect the reputation of individuals against unfounded and unjustified attacks.” However, it is relatively easy for a plaintiff to make out the tort, as it basically encompasses any statement that presents another in an uncomplimentary light. The major burden of the action then shifts to the person who made or published the statement to provide a defence. Do you think that the tort of defamation is too easily proven? Is it unfair to place such a heavy burden on someone to defend the statements they make, especially given that freedom of speech is such an important principle in Canada?