Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to speak today about the zero tolerance declaration adopted by this House a little more than a year ago. I have the feeling that there is a lack of understanding about the principle of zero tolerance, particularly in Nunavut. Perhaps, Mr. Speaker, some clarification is needed to remind our constituents and ourselves just what the focus of this philosophy is.
In February 1994, we adopted the declaration of zero tolerance for violence that occurs in the lives of too many northerners. Family violence, particularly spousal and child abuse, can be both physical and psychological and it leaves a victim scarred both physically and emotionally. It is sad that much of the time, we only hear about the violence in the homes in our community when something else occurs that brings it to our attention. Often that something else has to do with alcohol. Then the use or abuse of alcohol is mistakenly seen as the cause of violence, rather than a symptom of deeper sickness. In many cases, we are shocked to discover that the abuse has been going on for years.
Mr. Speaker, our greatest enemy in the fight against family Violence is silence. In order to stop the cycle of violence, existing attitudes must change. I quote from the Honourable Stephen Kakfwi when he addressed this issue on February 10, 1994: 'The elimination of family violence requires a wide range of actions but, at the end of the day, any family violence requires changing our attitudes which allow it to continue. We must challenge our old attitudes, values and behaviours today."
As the chosen representatives of our people, Members of the Assembly decided to adopt the declaration of zero tolerance for violence and encouraged other organizations and leaders in all communities to adopt similar declarations. It is true, Mr. Speaker, that we have many problems in the north today, but none are more damaging than violence and abuse in the home. Adopting and living up to the principle of zero tolerance for violence in our lives is a crucial first step but it is said, Mr. Speaker, that the longest journey begins with a single step.
Later this session, another step may be taken on this journey as Members debate a bill that will put in legislation what has, until now, been a parliamentary convention: that violent offences will result in expulsion from this Assembly. Whether the bill passes or not...