Bill 213 - The Reporting of Suppports for Child Survivors of Sexual Assault Act

On Thursday May 20, I spoke at 3rd reading on a bill put forward by Amanda Lathlin, the MLA for The Pas-Kameesak, to ensure there are reports of the support available for those whoh are victims of sexual assault in northern Manitoba. My comments (from Hansard) are below:

CONCURRENCE AND THIRD READINGS–AMENDED PUBLIC BILLS

Bill 213–The Reporting of Supports for Child Survivors of Sexual Assault Act
(Trained Health Professionals and Evidence Collection Kits)

Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): I'm glad to see that this important bill, sponsored by the member for The Pas-Kameesak, has passed committee with minor changes.

Clearly, if we're to make improvements in Manitoba, one of the most important areas to address is the safety and well-being of Manitobans and, particularly, women and girls. The deficit in people who are specialized in being able to examine and support individuals who've been victims of sexual assault which is currently present in the North is–really needs attention badly, and I hope the government will move very quickly to make sure that all communities in the North have highly trained individuals who can deal with sexual assaults, both in doing the appropriate testing and examination and in doing the appropriate follow-up and support.

I thank the member for The Pas-Kameesak for her efforts and look forward to this becoming law. Thank you.

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