Newfoundland and Labrador has one of the highest rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Canada. This crisis extends far beyond the individual – most often women – undermining families and destabilizing entire communities. NDP MHA Sheilagh O’Leary (St. John’s East–Quidi Vidi) has written to the Minister of Justice seeking a clear timeline for implementing key recommendations that would strengthen protections and improve safety for survivors of IPV.
After meeting with local violence prevention groups advocating for systemic changes to better support survivors of IPV and their families, O’Leary said it was reassuring to hear the Conservatives commit – through an election survey sent to leaders – to implementing all ActNow recommendations within two years of forming government. She added that now is the time to hold the government accountable and keep their feet to the fire on those commitments.
One of those recommendations – introducing pre-conviction ankle monitoring for IPV offenders – has been on the table in this province for some time. However, after the former Liberal government went silent on its implementation, the measure was never enacted. With similar programs proving effective in improving survivor safety in provinces across the country, O’Leary is calling on the Minister to confirm the government’s commitment.
“One of these recommendations – the use of pre-conviction ankle monitoring… I know you have raised questions on this issue in the House of Assembly in the past, and I welcome your party’s renewed commitment to its implementation. I would appreciate confirmation of what work has already been completed, as well as your anticipated timeline for implementation.”
O’Leary also asked the Minister to commit to declaring IPV an epidemic, something the NDP has been pushing for to bring awareness to the seriousness of this problem in our province. She says it is a first step that would show government understands and is willing to get to work to combat it.