N.S. government prepares engagement table on gender-based violence

The Nova Scotia government is taking action on gender-based violence by creating a new engagement group that will bring together experts, individuals with lived experience, and front-line workers. This initiative comes after the legislature declared gender-based violence an epidemic last year.

Justice Minister Becky Druhan, who is leading the effort, drew inspiration from a similar engagement group focused on child care during her time as education minister. She emphasized the importance of including voices from the sector and community to provide meaningful input into government initiatives.

Applications for up to 25 spots in the group will open soon, with finalized terms of reference and priorities to be made public shortly. The first meeting is expected to take place in the fall, followed by regular meetings at least once every three months.

The goal of the engagement group is to integrate the insights and knowledge of those directly impacted by gender-based violence with government actions and planning. While the government acknowledges the sector’s efforts, there is a recognized need to connect these insights with policy decisions.

The Liberal Party proposed the creation of this roundtable during a recent meeting of the legislature’s standing committee on health. The announcement of the new engagement group was met with support from the party, emphasizing the importance of listening to those on the front lines and those affected by gender-based violence.

NDP Leader Claudia Chender stressed the importance of ensuring that this group leads to tangible change. Recommendations from various reports provide a roadmap for action, and Chender highlighted the need for stable funding for organizations addressing gender-based violence.

The Progressive Conservatives recently announced additional funding for transition houses in response to concerns about inadequate resources for addressing gender-based violence. This funding increase followed a series of tragic incidents in which women were killed by their male partners in Nova Scotia.

Last September, all MLAs in the legislature supported a motion declaring intimate partner violence an epidemic in the province. The creation of this new engagement group signifies a commitment to addressing this pressing issue and working towards meaningful change.