Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
WHEREAS the social agenda conference report called for a Family Violence Prevention Act;
AND WHEREAS on November 3, 2000, this Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a declaration on family violence;
AND WHEREAS this declaration will emphasize a Member's individual commitment to address family violence, also affirmed the collective commitment of the 14th Assembly to work in partnership with communities and leaders to help lift the silence surrounding family violence and create caring supports for people experiencing violence;
AND WHEREAS this government has failed to provide adequate support for people experiencing family violence;
AND WHEREAS the creation and passage of family violence protection legislation would improve the support for victims of family violence;
AND WHEREAS the Standing Committee on Social Programs has been firmly requesting the development of a Family Violence Prevention Act since November of 2001, and Members for much longer;
AND WHEREAS the Government of the Northwest Territories has placed great importance on the issue of ending family violence to the point of naming a Minister of family violence;
AND WHEREAS family violence shelters are operating at or near capacity;
AND WHEREAS the Department of Health and Social Services has created the addictions, mental health and family violence strategy which is focussed on healing;
AND WHEREAS family violence protection legislation would improve the tools available for law enforcement agencies to help victims of family violence escape the violence without leaving their home community;
NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for Hay River South, that the Government of the Northwest Territories undertake the necessary work to draft and introduce a Family Violence Prevention Act in the Legislative Assembly by June 2003 for consideration. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause