Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston MPP John Jordan shared his thoughts on the province potentially declaring intimate partner violence (IPV) an epidemic.
Making the declaration is recommendation number 1 from the Culleton Kuzyk Warmerdam inquest into their femicides in Renfrew County at the hands of a former partner, and ending IPV. Learn more about the recommendations here, where you will find exclusive interviews with Lanark County Interval House ED Erin Lee, who testified at the inquest.
Bill 173 sits in a second reading and referred to the standing committee, which he says allow for further clarification and discussion.
Jordan says ending intimate partner violence remains of high importance to the provincial government.
Jordan says there’s lots of work being done both locally and provincially in addressing IPV, and it’s an issue that deserves continued attention.
Lanark County was the first to declare IPV an epidemic. Dozens of other municipalities including Perth, Smiths Falls, and Carleton Place followed suit.
Initially the province refused to declare IPV an epidemic. It took an NDP bill introduces in Queen’s Park to begin the process, just a few weeks ago. It is not known how long the bill will remain in committee.
Story by Grant Deme with files from Bob Perreault