[Nomentatus]

Whether "truth is an absolute defence" depends on the jurisdicton. In Canada and Britain proof of truth is an absolute defence, but mere truth is no defence at all. Think about it - how much of what you say could you actually prove in a court of law?

In court and parliament, this is relaxed somewhat. But just 'cause you - say - saw a murder by X in broad daylight, doesn't mean you get to say you did anywhere you like, in Canada and Britain.

PS, yes defence is really spelled with a c in Canada. This was deliberately done historically in order to distinguish ourselves from the US long before the internet and spell-checkers.

IANAL - but then a lot of lawyers aren't much good at their game either.