Today in the House of Assembly during Question Period, NDP MHA Sheilagh O’Leary (St. John’s East-Quidi Vidi) pressed the government for answers on two critical justice issues: when Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) will officially be labeled an epidemic, and when Indigenous inmates can expect culturally grounded programming in adult correctional facilities.
O’Leary began by reminding the government that, unlike the former administration, they promised to label IPV an epidemic – but have yet to provide a timeline for doing so.
“Speaker, both the Minister of Justice and the Minister responsible for Women and Gender Equality have stated in this House that they will declare intimate partner violence an epidemic – yet since then, there has been silence.”
“Will either Minister be transparent with the public and say when that declaration will happen?” O’Leary asked.
Today, First Light released a report on Indigenous incarceration in adult facilities, showing the rate is more than eight times higher than for non-Indigenous adults. The report also highlighted a lack of culturally informed supports and low awareness among Indigenous inmates of the services that are available. O’Leary asked for the timeline when we will begin to see these supports implemented in all correctional facilities.
“Speaker, First Light’s report on the rate of Indigenous incarceration in adult correctional facilities shows a clear absence of culturally appropriate supports and services,” said O’Leary.
“I ask the Minister of Justice: what is the timeline to deliver culturally grounded programming to support the reintegration of Indigenous peoples following incarceration?”